The effect of workplace bullying and self-efficacy on emotional distress among hospital nurses.

Abstract

This study intended to explore the workplace bullying, self-efficacy and emotional distress of the nursing staff and determine the predictors of nursing staff's emotional distress. Cross-sectional and correlation designs were used, collecting data including socio-demographic data, workplace bullying, self-efficacy and emotional distress scales. Results showed that the frequency of poor sleep quality in the recent 2weeks, working in the intensive care centre or emergency room, high workplace bullying and low self-efficacy were the main predictors of emotional distress in nursing staff. Nursing supervisors are advised to design suitable shift schemes to allow adequate time for nurses to maintain proper rest and develop a safety notification system to give bullied victims the assurance of safety. The design and implementation of the programs are encouraged to improve self-efficacy among nurses by strengthening the training of social skills, improving employees' communication skills and their relationships with other employees.