Workplace Intimidation Defined

Workplace intimidation, also known as workplace bullying, occurs when a superior, peer or subordinate uses violence or blackmail to manipulate you or intentionally creates feelings of fear, inadequacy or awe.

Workplace intimidation includes illegal sexual harassment and discrimination, but is not limited to illegal behavior.                            `                            ``     

When people (nurses included) are afraid of intimidation such as harassment, even losing their jobs, they will do whatever is required to meet the boss’s explicit expectations. But there are caveats:

Despite recent attention which has been drawn to the importance of speaking out, often we hear from nurses facing difficulties of fear and intimidation. If this damaging culture of fear existing today among nurses is to end, then we must be able to encourage ourselves to speak out safely without fear of reprisal.

Interactions	·         Withholding information
	·         Posting documentation errors on bulletin boards for all disciplines to view and others to critique
	·         Intimidating others by threats of disciplinary procedures
	·         Writing critical and abusive letters or notes to co-workers
	·         Verbalizing harsh innuendos and criticism
	·         Using hand gestures to ward off conversation.
	·         Rolling eyes in disgust
	·         Having personal values and beliefs undermined
Power Disparities	·         Using shift/weekend charge positions to direct/control staff assignments/breaks
	·         Controlling co-workers’ behavior by reporting them to their supervisors for perceived lack of productivity and assistance
	·         Placing others under pressure to produce work and meet impossible deadlines
	·         Withholding knowledge of policies and procedures to get co-workers in trouble
	·         Using shift/weekend charge positions to direct/control staff assignments/breaks
Actions	·         Yelling at co-workers.
	·         Demanding co-workers answer the telephone, NOW!
	·         Refusing to mentor and guide new staff in their practice
	·         Refusing to help those who struggle with the unknown and uncertainty
	·         Refusing to help others in need of assistance
	·         Giving public reminders of incomplete/missed documentation or work

Whether it is responding to opinion in public domain, nursing blog, whistle blowing, expressing views in a nursing forum- nurses still 'fear' for repercussions that may follow

There are occasions where nurses have been bullied, ostracised or belittled when for trying to raise concerns even on behalf of their patients

Even if he is the owner, the workplace bully, does not act in the best interests of by bullying others. In some cases the bullied may come to believe that he/she is to blame for the way you are treated.

Consequences of fear and intimidation

Putting patient safety at risk

A key lessons from the Francis report was that front line staff must feel confident to raise concerns about patient safety without fear of reprisals Nursing staff want to provide excellent care, but sometimes the systems they work in do not allow this. Staff know what is safe for their patients and what is not.

Physical strain. Victims of bullying may show symptoms of stress-related illnesses syndromes such as nausea, headache, weight loss, insomnia, anxiety, depression, alcoholism, irritability, loss of libido, self. They may experience depression, high blood pressure or substance abuse problems and even have trouble sleeping at night and waking up in the morning. In extreme cases, workplace intimidation can lead to suicide.

 Decreased productivity

Employees managed via intimidation are often fearful at work and fail to meet expectations. Overall, Workplace intimidation is often lower productivity by decreasing staff morale and increasing internal frictions in the organization

 Isolation In an attempt to make the injured party feel inadequate, bullies may isolate their victim and created a climate of fear. The staff being bullied imagines the whole world against him…and feels totally isolated

Prevention

Managers are responsible for this. The question is, how does your manager create and maintain an inclusive environment where employees feel valued and respected.

Respect for subordinates is the most effective ways for a manager to prevent workplace bullying. This promotes culture of mutual respect within the organization. The manager should encourage team members to speak out if whether a victim or an observer of it. 

Organization policies against workplace intimidation can help, although least likely to be effective against subtle forms of intimidation. As a potential victim an employee should be able confront the bully whenever it does happen.

Inadequate training

Many nurse managers lack skills, training, and knowledge on how to deal with bullying events, and that complaints of bullying often go unnoticed or ignored.

Legal Options

Unfortunately, even obvious types of intimidation are difficult to litigate unless they amount to sexual harassment or illegal discrimination. It is often almost impossible and therefore prosecute, and therefore people who use intimidation and bullying tactics in the workplace usually get away with the abuse. Victims should always maintain a file of what is happening to them as evidence of occurrence may be required in the future.

5 Gifts for Nurses and Their Families

When we think of giving gifts for nurses and vice versa, we usually think of things to buy for people. Yet if you think back on gifts you've been given, it might not be the material gifts you received that are foremost in your mind. It might be the kind of gifts that deeply touched your heart and soul.

Here are five gifts of love that we can give to our fellow nurses and their families that can make a huge difference in their lives:

1. The Gift of Caring and Compassion

We all yearn to feel cared for, yet many of us withhold caring and compassion for others. A profound gift we can give to our loved ones is to listen with our heart. We should understand and accept rather than to judge, staying open to learning rather than protecting ourselves from being hurt.

Think about the last time someone actually listened to you and gave you understanding and acceptance. The feeling of being understood and accepted with caring and compassion is one of the best feelings in the world. Instead of focusing on getting this from others, why not focus on giving it to others? You might be surprised at how wonderful you feel in giving this gift to your family.

2. The Gift of Courage

One of the best gifts for fellow nurses and our loved ones is our own courage. This means having the courage to stand in our truth and to be honest about what we want and don't want. It is in knowing what we will do and won't do, what is and what is not acceptable to us. It means having the courage to take good care of ourselves, even if others don't like it.

It means not succumbing to our controlling behaviors that come from fear, anger, withdrawal, compliance, resistance. Instead, it is being honest and above-board about ourselves. It means being willing to face conflict for the right things, rather than give ourselves up to avoid it.

When we have the courage to face conflict and tell the truth, we not only provide our family with a role model for courage. We also provide opportunities for our loved ones to step up to the plate, in the face of truth, and learn to be courageous too.

3. The Gift of Service

 We are on this planet to learn to love and help each other. One of the best gifts we can give our family is being a role model of service. Helping others fills the heart and soul in ways that nothing else can. If children do not see their parents offering their services and helping others, they may never learn the great joy and fulfillment that comes from giving. One of the best gifts we can give to our family is to provide ways of doing service such as volunteer nursing.

4. The Gift of Creativity

All of us are born with various ways of expressing our creativity. Expressing creativity is a profound way of connecting with the spirit. Providing your family with many ways of expressing their creativity is a great gift. Creativity can be expressed in so many ways: cooking, crafts, building things, music, telling stories, writing, humor, photography and video. The possibilities are endless! Creative family projects are especially wonderful in creating family closeness.

5. The Gift of Lightness of Being

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Lightness of being—fun, joy, laughter, playfulness—is infectious. Our laughter and playfulness can help others take life less seriously and "lighten up."

Lightness of being is the result of the gifts of caring, courage, service and creativity. When we give these gifts, we feel a wonderful lightness within, the lightness that is the result of fully giving from the heart. Our own lightness of being can bring lightness into our whole family. Children love it when their parents are playful, fun-loving and joyful. Laughing together as a family is one of the most precious experiences in life.

These gifts are far more important than any material thing we can buy for someone. In fact, we might not be so focused on material gifts if we frequently give the gifts of love—of caring, compassion, courage, service, creativity, and lightness of being. And these gifts for nurses and their families are not just ideal for the holiday season. They should be shared every day.
Merry Xmas All!

Source:
Margaret Paul/ nursestogether

Top Cancer Causing Foods to Avoid

By Collins Onyango
Food and beverages you consume, the fuel your body uses to fight disease is critical to your overall health. While food may be essential to your overall well being, some (foods) may be worse than others and could be predispose you to many conditions and diseases including cancer

There are cases where cancer strikes suddenly but often, it manifests progressively after years of specific habits. Good examples of this are smoking and frequent exposure to ultraviolet rays, which result in lung cancer and skin cancer, respectively.

Regularly consistently eating the foods in our top list can also lead to heart disease, diabetes, and chronic inflammation. The truth of the matter is that, indeed many common food items have been scientifically proven to increase cancer risk and some of them substantially.

 1. Genetically Modified Foods (GM Os)

The GMO foods are often modified to withstand heavy doses of a pesticide called glyphosate or are engineered to contain a toxin that kills bugs The rapidly growing industries of genetically modified crops continue to infiltrate our food supply at an alarming rate. While this new culture may be fairly new source of cancer, several experts agree that GMO foods could be next source of cancer. Genes inserted into GM soy, for example, can transfer into the DNA of comensals (bacteria living inside us). In one study, toxic insecticide produced by GM corn was found in the blood of pregnant women and their unborn foetuses.

In addition, glyphosate, one of the most common pesticide sprayed on GM crops and an additional 200 crops, has been linked to Non-Hodgkin’sLymphoma, birth defects, growth of human breast cancer cells, among other effects

However, one can avoid GM Os by sticking with certified organic, certified non-GMO verified and locally-grown foods produced naturally in absence of biotechnology

2. Microwave Popcorn

The smell that first hits you when you open a bag of popcorn is perhaps one of the most satisfying, but it could pose danger to your health

Microwave popcorn has been at the centre of lung cancer debates around the world. From the chemical-lined bag to its actual contents, conventional microwave popcorn bags are lined with a chemical called perfluorooctanoicacid ( PFOA); same toxin found in Teflon. PFOA significantly increases the risk of kidney, bladder, liver, pancreas and testicular cancers according to recent study at the University of California

It is so EASY to make your own popcorn from scratch and you can avoid all of these health pitfalls. This recipe takes 5 mins. The additional 2 minutes (over microwave popcorn) is time definitely worth committing to.

3. Canned Foods

Most cans are lined with a product called bisphenol-A (BPA), which has been shown to genetically alter the brain cells of rats. Many plastic goods, thermal paper, water lines, and many dental composites also contain BPA.

Trying to avoid the BPA in canned foods can be a challenge but may seem simple.

Of course, fresh vegetables and beef products are always the best option. Check out what's local and seasonal in your area—they're likely the least expensive, freshest and tastiest produce selections around

4. Processed Meats

Although grilling tastes delicious, scientific studies continue to reveal that when you grill red meat and specifically processed meats like hot dogs – it releases a carcinogen called heterocyclic aromatic amines (HAA). Several processed meat products, such as lunch meats, bacon, sausage, and hot dogs, contain HAA, a chemical preservative that make them appear fresh and appealing, but has potential to cause cancer

A recent largest study to highlight this question, published on line  BMC Medicine, found a moderate positive association between processed meat consumption and mortality. This was particularly true for cancer, but was also true for cardiovascular diseases (CVDs).

5. Refined Sugars and High Sugar Consumption

It is a fact that sugar feeds every cell in our body — even cancer cells. But, it (sugar intake) doesn’t necessarily result in cancer. It’s what sugar does to your waistline that may lead to cancer. Too much sugar calories may result in weight gain, and obese increases your risk for cancer and other diseases.

Refined sugar is a not only typically GMO (because it’s genetically modified sugar beets), but it rapidly spikes insulin levels. High fructose (HFCS) is the biggest threat because it is the source of major insulin spikes and feed the growth of cancer cells.

Published in the Journal of Clinical, a study uncovered identified sugar, not only as fuel source for an already existing cancer, but as a primary driver in oncogenesis – i.e. the initiation of cancerous characteristics (phenotype) within previously healthy cells.

6. Salted, Pickled, and Smoked Foods

Most published epidemiological studies positively associate salt or salted food consumption to stomach cancer risk. Preservatives increase the life of foods by controlling the growth of undesirable molds, yeast and bacteria in food that can cause spoilage and illnesses. These preservatives used include nitrates that can accumulate in the body over-time and eventually, their toxins result in cellular damage and later progress to diseases like cancer. At high temperatures especially during cooking, the nitrates are converted to the much more dangerous carcinogenic nitrites.

7. Soda and Carbonated Beverages

For the last two decade sodas have been at the centre of the health debate. Enriched with high-fructose corn syrup (HFCS), dyes, and a host of other chemicals, they pose risk for your health despite zero nutritional value. Loaded with sugar, food chemicals, and colourings, soda acidifies the body and literally feeds cancer cells. Common soda derivatives like caramel color and its precursor 4-methylimidazole (4-MI) have also specifically been linked causing cancer.

8. Hydrogenated Oils

Hydrogenated oils, like vegetable oil, contain trans-fats (also called trans-saturated fats or trans-fatty acids) widely used in processed foods. They are packed with unhealthy omega-6fats and have been proven to structure and flexibility of cell membranes throughout the body, which can lead to a host of debilitating diseases such as cancer membranes.

Most trans-fat is formed through an industrial process that adds hydrogen to vegetable oil, which causes the oil to become solid at room temperature and present in a variety of food products, including:

• Baked goods. Most cakes, cookies, pie crusts and crackers contain shortening, which is usually made from partially hydrogenated vegetable oil. Ready-made frosting is another source of trans-fat.
•  Snacks. Potato, corn and tortilla chips often contain trans-fat. And while popcorn can be a healthy snack, many types of packaged or microwave popcorn use trans-fat to help cook or flavor the popcorn.
• Fried food. Foods that require deep frying — French fries, doughnuts and fried chicken — can contain trans-fat from the oil used in the cooking process.
• Refrigerator dough. Products such as canned biscuits and cinnamon rolls often contain trans-fat, as do frozen pizza crusts.
• Creamer and margarine. Nondairy coffee creamer and stick margarine also may contain partially hydrogenated vegetable oils.

You stay away from hydrogenated oil by choosing coconut, palm, or olive oil. Organic butter is a better option as well. Some meat and dairy products contain small amounts of naturally occurring trans-fat.

9. Farmed Fish

Eating fish has long been regarded as healthy option. That could have been absolutely true, but today in most cases; it’s only partially true statement. Where your fish comes from is of paramount importance! There is a vast different between wild caught fish and farmed fish. Commercial fish farming involves raising an incredible number of fish – such as salmon – in a crowded environment.  

Over 60% of the salmon consumed come from farms where they are treated with antibiotics, pesticides, and other carcinogenic chemicals.

Besides, farmed fish gives you higher levels of inflammation producing omega-6 fatty acids, and lower levels of inflammation fighting heart and brain healthy omega-3s

A study conducted at the University of New York at Albany found that dioxin levels in farm-raised salmon are 11 times higher than those in wild salmon.

World Health Organisation (WHO) describes Dioxins as one of the “dirty dozen,” because they are highly toxic and are stored for a long time in the body: their half- life in fat cells is 7 to 11 years.

Dioxins impair the endocrine, immune, nervous and reproductive systems and are carcinogens.

10. Potato Chips/ French Fries

Potato Chips/ French Fries are fast food staples fried in hydrogenated vegetable oil and then heavily salted. Aside from trans-fats, potato chips and other junk foods include carbohydrates, preservatives, salt and artificial colour's and flavors. Foods cooked in high temperatures lead to the formation of carcinogens like acrylamide, which is connected to different cases of cancer. Both French fries and potato chips have been found to have higher levels of acrylamide that studies have shown increase the risk of cancer

1. Consumer Warning:Processed Meats Cause Cancer
2. Increased sugar uptake promotes oncogenesis via EPAC/RAP1 and O-GlcNAc pathway
3.  Top10 Cancer Causing Foods
4.   Top10 most unhealthy,cancer-causing foods - never eat these again! 
5. Top11 cancer causing foods to avoid that you might eat everyday

Strategies for Managing Work Related Conflict

By DonnaCardillo, RN, MA

Wherever there are people, there always will be conflict. It’s a simple fact of life. Opinions vary, and miscommunications and misunderstandings occur. People have differing values and priorities, and most of us resist change. All of these things create conflict in our life and work. The problem is not conflict itself, but rather how we deal with it. The good news is effective conflict management strategies can be learned and mastered. While there are many different types of conflict, let’s discuss some strategies for managing interpersonal conflict.

1. Deal with it. Most people prefer to avoid conflict. I’ve heard from many nurses who actually have quit their jobs rather than attempt to resolve an interpersonal conflict at work. This almost never is a good solution, and it usually leads to feelings of regret and guilt. Besides, if you quit every time you have a conflict on the job, you’ll be quitting every job you ever have in a short period of time.
2. Conflict needs to be dealt with. If you ignore or avoid it, it can lead to increased stress and unresolved feelings of anger, hostility and resentment. When you learn to manage conflict effectively, you’ll be happier and healthier, physically and emotionally. You’ll have better relationships. You’ll be a better leader, a better team member and a better person. You’ll gain respect, improve your self-esteem and build courage. You’ll get more of what you want.
3. Think it through. Before addressing the person with whom you have a conflict, consider discussing the situation with an objective friend or family member. This can help to clarify issues and needs. Seek feedback and advice in dealing with the situation. But be careful not to rely on the opinion of an involved third party who may have his or her own agenda. Plan your strategy, including what you want to say, and then write it down and rehearse it. Create a note card, if necessary, with your main talking points. This will help you to feel more in control and stay on target.
4. Talk it out, face to face. Meeting in person can be intimidating, but it is often the best way to go. Face-to-face communication is more effective than other forms because it allows for an active exchange of information. It gives you the opportunity to make use of the handshake, a smile, eye contact, hand gestures and other important body language. It also allows you to observe important nonverbal cues from the other party. Set aside time to meet with the person face-to-face at a mutually convenient time and place. When possible, meet on “neutral turf” rather than one of your offices so no one has the “home court” advantage. E-mail and letter writing should be avoided, if possible, to resolve conflict or to discuss sensitive topics, problems or hurt feelings. It is too impersonal and indirect and increases the risk of miscommunication and misunderstanding. A phone call is the next best thing when in-person meetings aren’t possible.
5. Use a mediator if necessary. If a situation is particularly volatile or troublesome and other efforts have not worked, you might invite a neutral third party, such as a supervisor, to act as a mediator if this is agreeable to all concerned. A mediator can remain objective, listen to both sides, and facilitate resolution and compromise. Be firm on your objectives; you’re there to resolve a conflict, not defeat an opponent.
6. Apologize when appropriate. Be aware of your own part in creating the conflict. If you’ve done something wrong or inappropriate, be willing to acknowledge it and say you’re sorry, even if the conflict is not entirely a result of your actions. Sometimes you have to meet people halfway to get to where you want to go.
7. Choose your battles. There always will be differing opinions and ways of doing things. Decide which issues you can live with and which need addressing. If you bring up only the most important issues, you will develop credibility. On the other hand, if you make an issue about everything, you’ll be labeled a complainer. Then, when you have a legitimate beef, you likely will be ignored like the fabled boy who cried wolf.
8. Work to minimize conflict. Take steps to minimize conflict at work before it happens. Work at developing good relationships with coworkers and colleagues. Get to know people. Be friendly and sociable. Everyone has different needs and priorities and comes from different cultural backgrounds. Contrary to what you’ve heard, familiarity breeds respect.
9. Work on your own communication skills. The ability to express yourself clearly will allow you to say what’s on your mind, ask for what you want and need and get your point across. There is an expression that a problem well-stated is a problem half-solved.
10. Avoid troublemakers as much as possible. They will suck you in and drag you down. Don’t engage in gossip or backstabbing. Get the facts before jumping to conclusions about something you’re heard through the grapevine. Know when it’s appropriate to walk away from a confrontation, and always consider the source in the face of criticism or hurtful comments.

Conflict can’t be avoided, but it can be minimized and resolved. Although avoidance sometimes seems like the easy way out, facing conflict head-on in an appropriate and professional manner will lead to better relationships, a more productive work environment and empowerment. 

About Author

Donna Cardillo, RN, CSP is The Inspiration Nurse. She does that as a keynote speaker, columnist, author, and cut-up. Her accomplished career combines over 25 years of clinical, managerial and business experience, not to mention her stint as a professional singer. Donna’s clinical experience includes emergency and psychiatric nursing. Donna holds a diploma in nursing, a BS in Health Care Management and an MA in Corporate and Public Communication