In addressing ongoing uncivil behavior on the unit, which action is an appropriate initial step for leadership to take?

• A. Describe to Nurse X the negative impact of uncivil behaviors on the work environment
• B. File a formal complaint
• C. Ignore the behavior
• D. Have Nurse X attend a class that addresses civil behaviors in the workplace

Answer: (A)

Addressing ongoing uncivil behavior starts with direct, private feedback that names the specific behavior and its concrete effects on the team and patient safety. Describing to the nurse the negative impact of uncivil behaviors on the work environment does exactly that: it creates awareness, holds the individual accountable, and sets clear expectations for professional conduct. This approach is respectful, reduces defensiveness, and opens the door to corrective action without escalating to formal processes or broad-only training.

Filing a formal complaint should come after informal feedback if behavior persists or in response to a serious incident; ignoring the behavior is inappropriate and allows problems to fester; sending someone to a class alone may be helpful but doesn’t address the specific behavior or its impact and should follow a direct conversation if needed.