Dealing with a coworker who has offensive body odor can lead to an unpleasant experience for colleagues, patients, visitors, and anyone else who comes into contact with the person. The purpose of this article is to provide suggestions on handling the smelly coworker.
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I'm sure that the majority of readers have had the unpleasant experience of working in close proximity to a coworker who smells terribly at least once during their careers. If you have never had a coworker who stinks to high heaven or at least smells somewhat strangely, consider yourself extremely fortunate.
Predictably, everyone on the unit or ward is acutely aware that the person smells. In fact, everybody talks about this person's raunchy smell when he or she is not within an earshot. If the smelly coworker provides direct care, the more alert patients might discreetly mention the problem to other staff when this person is not around. Strangely enough, the smelly coworker is always the only one who is not aware that he or she is emitting body odor that offends others. It's a sticky situation.
Too often, nobody directly approaches the coworker about his or her noticeable smell. Instead, an anonymous group of colleagues may pitch in with some cash to purchase some toiletries, personal care supplies, and a basket. The coworker feels embarrassment, humiliation, and a figurative kick in the face when he or she later discovers a basket with bars of soap, deodorant, toothpaste, shampoo, and a nameless note with a blunt message to use these personal care items because he or she stinks.
Also, some colleagues spend years without even taking the anonymous route of getting the message to the person. They simply have learned to adapt to the person's stench. Ignoring the problem is not fair to the smelly coworker or the people who must work in the same quarters with the person.
Ultimately, it is the responsibility of the smelly coworker's manager or supervisor to confront this person regarding the strong body odor. Yes, I most certainly said it. Lateral colleagues should not be forced to deal with the smell, nor should they bear the responsibility of approaching the coworker regarding his or her offensive odor.
The manager needs to have a private, straightforward talk with the coworker. This is not the time for any hedging or indirect clues. The manager or supervisor should keep the conversation short and get to the point while employing a sympathetic, cool tone. "We're here to discuss your hygiene. You have an odor that is distinct enough to make your patients, coworkers, and others uncomfortable. Can I count on you to concentrate on this problem as soon as possible?"
Of course, the smelly coworker might be in denial and insist that they do not have an odor. In addition, certain health conditions result in body odor, and specific cultural foods and seasonings are odorous. If management has been made aware of the body odor and they refuse to address the issue, a brave colleague may arrange to have the private talk with the coworker.
Dealing with a coworker who has body odor can be distressing for all parties involved, but some sympathy, patience, and tact should go a long way. Good luck!
