Backbiting at work

Published

Specializes in CVICU, ER, Flight.

Hey all. I just started a new job and I am having a bit of trouble. While doing my training on the unit, all I hear from all the aids and nurses is backbiting. As soon as someone leaves, they talk bad about them. I can't stand it. I believe in working together as a team and this is just everyone for themselves. I am the only guy on the floor and I haven't had too many issues, but I wouldn't be surprised if someone said something bad. I try to do my job well, but this backbiting just makes the work environment horrible. Any advice?

Up Vote Up Vote ×

Stay AWAY. I'm not a nurse yet, but im a woman, and i know how SOME of us can be. They thrive on gossip and the crabs in the bucket theroy of climbing over one so that they dont reach the top first. Do your job, and dont get involved.

Up Vote Up Vote ×
Specializes in ICU, SDU, OR, RR, Ortho, Hospice RN.

*Sighs* I get upset when I hear this.

If I hear negativity at work I deal with it right then in a very polite and professional manner. Just glad I have not had to do it much at all.

Nothing brings a team and the morale down faster than backbiting and gossipmongers! Arrrggghhhhhhh If they have time on their hands for that they are not busy enough LOL

Hang in there but if it gets too much you may wish to deal with it in a way that you are comfortable with. Best of all good things with your job. :)

Up Vote Up Vote ×

stay out of it!

if you read enough of these threads, it's too common an occurrence...

esp working amongst a group of women.

i've never understood or appreciated this type mentality.

stay true to yourself and your pts.

be a team player.

and do not let anyone drag you down.

it sucks, i know.

try to surround yourself with the 1 or 2 who are more virtuous.

best of everything.

leslie

Up Vote Up Vote ×

I agree, just stay out of it. Never say anything you would not want repeated. If I have anything to say to someone, I say it to their face. Keeping in mind we should not argue at work.

Up Vote Up Vote ×
Specializes in CTICU.

Aloof (Adj) Distant, esp. in one's relations with other people; indifferent. -adj, At a distance, but within veiw; apart.

This is the description of how I "try" to be at work. As the only guy on the unit, I keep my ear open but the filter turned way up and I don't get involved unless it is absolutely necessary.

Don't get me wrong I don't ignore my co-workers (I still listen to all the stories about thier kids, husband, bad cramps, etc) I just don't really buy into it all. Like the dictionary says "at a distance, but within veiw.":twocents:

Up Vote Up Vote ×
Specializes in Med-Surg, Geriatric, Behavioral Health.

Yes....give it "benign distance" away from you if you can and "benign neglect" if it is placed in your face or personal space. Don't feed the energy or attention it craves. Be the better person...and show others that it admirable to not be a part of it.

Best wishes

:paw:

Up Vote Up Vote ×
Specializes in CVICU, ER, Flight.

Well, I have worked a few shifts on the same floor and things are not any better. I am attempting to keep my distance from it all and its going well. If someone says something to me, I just say, "Well, I don't know them, so I wouldn't know." Something like that. I just try to deflect direct backbiting by changing the subject or leaving. Hope it continues to work.

Up Vote Up Vote ×

I would suggest that you make it known that you are not open this type of nastiness. Just say something like "I'm here to do my job and not to discuss my workmates". It sounds a bit brash but sometimes we need to make ourselves understood. Soon enough the word will get around and you'll be left in peace to build good working relationships. Good luck.

Up Vote Up Vote ×
+ Join the Discussion