Charge Nurses' Experiences With Horizontal Violence: Implications for Leadership Development

Abstract

A safe work environment is a prerequisite for the provision of high-quality patient care. Horizontal violence can undermine the culture of safety and the well-being of the nurses in the work unit. Charge nurses, whose role encompasses both staff and manager responsibilities, play an important role in team building and care delivery. Yet, little is known about their experience with horizontal violence. A lack of adequate leadership education and role delineation may predispose charge nurses to horizontal violence. A descriptive study was conducted to describe the incidence of horizontal violence of charge nurses. The Horizontal Violence Scale was used to collect data from a convenience sample of 366 charge nurses. Charge nurses reported experiencing horizontal violence with some regularity. Nurse leaders must critically evaluate the work culture and provide appropriate education and support to charge nurses to combat horizontal violence. J Contin Educ Nurs. 2016;47(11):493-499.