Any solutions to disrespect from scrub techs

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I have just started doing 3-11 charge at a smaller community hospital with 8 OR's. I have found that the techs can be very disrespectful. They try to make you look stupid in front of the MD's or act like they know everything. Any advice on this issue?

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Punch them in the seat

(Disclaimer: I'm not serious)

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Specializes in ED, ICU, PACU.

Laugh at their remarks. It really works. Do not try to defend yourself or put them down because that is what they are trying to get you to do. They aren't ready for someone to laugh at them and appear not to take what they say (or do) seriously.

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I have found ignoring people who are trying to put you down is a good stance to take. It shows them that their comments aren't even worth responding to in the first place. If you do this enough and they know they can't bully you they will move on.

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Specializes in OR.

Definitely take the high road. It sounds like they are testing you. If you show them you're strong & competent they'll respect you for that and back off.

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Specializes in OR.
Punch them in the seat

(Disclaimer: I'm not serious)

:yeah:At least you wouldn't contaminate them if you punched them there :D

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beetch slap them.

jk! Hope you'll laugh at the whole irony of the situation!

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Well, I've been there on both sides of this type of situation. How are they being disrespectful? I've had new charge nurses who didn't have a whole lot of experience and in my younger days before I learned to consider my words I know that I probably appeared disrespectful when I was trying to help them follow a safe course in a new situation. I've also had new charge nurses who weren't willing to listen to a mere tech about anything. Working together should not be a battle. A good scrub tech can make you look like the best nurse in the hospital and a good nurse can make the tech look like the greatest most efficient scrub around. The whole process takes team work.

My advice is not to ignore or laugh, but to forge a bond with the staff. Honest, open communication will turn the trick most of the time. I'm not saying to be best friends, but to become work buddies. Share experiences and knowledge. Share your desires for your department and try to work toward common goals.

It won't be quick and often not easy, but the rewards are great. Treat everyone with equality and respect and you will earn their respect. Specific problems should be met with calm open examination between you in private and never ever discuss these meetings with anyone except your own superior and then only if necessary. Don't talk about one staff member to others.

Give public thanks for help and encourage public kindness between all staff members. If you can do this you will be a great charge nurse and your staff will reflect the hard work that you have put into pulling them together rather than making it a them or us situation.

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Specializes in Operating Room Nursing.

I would be putting them in their place quick smart.

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Specializes in OR.

Well said, lindaloo :up:

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