Dealing with a difficult coworker

jadelpn, LPN, EMT-B · Jul 26, 2015

"I can see you are upset, but I am unsure of the goal. What is it that you would like me to do right now? I will be more mindful of this in the future."

Do not internalize, do not put emotion into it.

"I am having a hard time understanding you when you are raising your voice. Could you explain to me what it is I am to do at present?"

If what is being yelled is berating everyone, and it continues, I would bring it up the chain of command. He could learn how to effectively communicate without raising his voice, and certainly not being condescending (if he is being condescending...)

Best wishes!

Lev, MSN, RN, NP · Jul 27, 2015

Is this the only problem with this job? I would not advise quitting, since it is hard to get a job and harder if you aren't employed. You did mention that you are there per diem, so hopefully, this isn't your only job. I would not quit because of how someone makes me feel. He is acting inappropriately. You are probably not the only one he behaves like this toward. Speak to him about the matter and if the behavior continues, speak with your manager or supervisor. If a couple people come with complaints against a particular coworker, like if anyone witnessed his behavior toward you and wants to report him, your will have a stronger case and management may take it more seriously. I hope everything works out for you.

HouTx, BSN, MSN, EdD · Jul 27, 2015

PPs have offered great advice for dealing with your out-of-control coworker "in the moment".

BUT - this type of behavior should not be tolerated in any work setting. In health care, disruptive behavior is a serious patient safety issue. CNAs (and coworkers) are much less likely to communicate anything for fear of triggering verbal abuse - so they may fail to report a serious problem. Talk to your manager about the specific behaviors you have witnessed. If that doesn't work, you need to escalate to HR or your DON. This is a trainwreck waiting to happen.

rollieschmollie · Jul 27, 2015

I'd report him. Constant yelling by a coworker is unacceptable. He not only does it to you, but others.

I don't know how long you've put up with it, but if a coworker was yelling at me I would eventually snap on him or her. (Not a good idea to do either, but I don't sit quietly by while someone degrades myself or others).

Don't quit. Speak up for yourself and others.

MPHJane · Jul 29, 2015

Thank you all for your advice. I am going to stick it out for now but if he starts yelling I will have to tell my manager. Luckily I work full time and do this per diem so I don't have to deal with this issue on a regular basis.