That is a very unfortunate situation. I know you mentioned that one person is being singled out, but I have to wonder if there is anyone else there who is feeling pressured. This ‘clique’ of senior nurses fits that sad stereotype of nurses eating their young. And there must be others who have encountered their bullying.

The main problem is an administration that allows this and by allowing it, they are condoning this behavior. That is where change must happen.

Maybe counseling will help him. And confidence boosting, etc. I am all for that. But it is pointless if this clique is going to continue with this behavior over and over with young graduates. After this student, who’s next?

Have you ever heard of Renee Thompson? She is a fantastic nurse leader with a body of work and expertise all around bullying. I contacted her when you commented about this situation, and she expressed that she would welcome an email from you to see what further insight she can give you on dealing with this situation. Her email: renee@rtconnections.com.

Renee Thompson’s website for you and anyone else interested: http://rtconnections.com/

As this Nurse’ mentor, even I am unable to do much to help him except advise him to make official complaints to the relevant licensing authority and reporting them for unprofessional conduct, as well as consulting the Union and think about taking legal action against the hospital for failing to provide a safe workplace. If the latter course of action was taken, this nurse who has the potential to be outstanding may never have a career.

The above advice is wonderful if a nurse is in a position that they can walk away, change jobs etc etc. Unfortunately, most workplace bullying and many toxic workplaces single out a victim who is in a position where they have very little control over a situation.

My student is under a tremendous amount of stress and I am greatly concerned for his mental health. I have referred him to counselling, but all of us involved are at a loss about to do next.