Policy urges respectful behaviour to colleagues and patients
policy
Bad behaviour poses risk to patient safety
Policy urges respectful behaviour to colleagues and patients
photo : masterfile
Unprofessional behaviour comes in many different forms , but when behaviour is disruptive it not only unsettles and rattles co-workers but also jeopardizes the safety of patients .
A doctor known for her quick temper , insults , and bullying behaviour , for example , may inhibit colleagues and patients from asking her for clarification on a care issue . Or rather than face the doctor ’ s possible wrath , nurses may hesitate to point out a possible drug interaction or be reluctant to make an observation about the changing condition of one of her patients . Research has shown that a physician ’ s disruptive behaviour not only undermines medical professionalism and the communication and collaboration that underpin good medical practice , it also impacts the delivery of quality health care and patient safety . At its meeting in May , Council approved an updated policy that states physicians are expected to act in a respectful , courteous and civil manner toward their patients , colleagues , and others involved in the provision of health care . The policy also identifies a subset of unprofessional behaviour known as disruptive behaviour and articulates the negative impact that disruptive behaviour can have on patient safety , outcomes and the work environment . The policy is consistent with the earlier policy first approved by Council in 2007 and does not create new expectations for the profession . “ While there may be a myriad of reasons for disruptive behaviour , whether personal , professional , or situational , physicians are nevertheless expected to demonstrate professional behaviour at all times ,” states the policy . The Guidebook for Managing Disruptive Physician Behaviour is the companion document to this policy , as it provides institutions and organizations with advice and tools for creating environments that foster medical professionalism and effectively addressing disruptive behaviour in a staged approach .
Issue 2 , 2016 Dialogue 19