The experienced nurse is working on a medical unit with a new graduate nurse who has a reputation of being forgetful. When approaching the unit station, the experienced nurse overhears a physician and a physical therapist making jokes about the new graduate. The nurse laughs and keeps walking. As the nurse turns a nearby corner, the new graduate is found standing in the corridor, listening.

1.

Is the experienced nurse’s behavior consistent with workforce bullying?

2.

Should the experienced nurse interact with the new graduate right then? If yes, how? If no, why not?

3.

What can the experienced nurse do to support the new graduate and other colleagues with the same habit of forgetfulness?