Power tripping coworker

[orangepink, NP]

I've been working in a specialty clinic for 1 year and I enjoy my daily work and I find the specialty challenging and interesting and I have a great working relationship with my boss, the doctor/owner. The only thorn in my backside is the office manager who only has been there for 2 years and is seriously power tripping. I stay out of her way mostly but she does often get in my nerves! For one thing, she freely discusses the details of my contract with the MAs!

I was wondering if anyone could share advice /tips /personal experiences as well

[jadelpn, LPN, EMT-B]

"I would appreciate it if you would not gossip about my personal employee status. Thanks."

Not emotional, not raising your voice, just very factual.

If it continues, I would go to the head of HR for the parent company of which you work and file a complaint. HR matters are private. And any discussion regarding any aspect of your employment status against HR policies.

Otherwise, I would continue to do your thing. If an MA comes to you again, I would answer with "that is really none of your or anyone else's concern. So I decline to talk about it. Thank you for understanding!"

You are a provider in the practice. Therefore, you have the authority to speak to those who need to take direction from you regarding professional boundaries and expectations. I would be clear and concise, and then go about your day.

It is all fun and games until you have to do an employee evaluation on one of these lovelies!

Best wishes!

[orangepink, NP]

Thanks for the tip! My other issue with her is she tells all the MAs that I am her subordinate because I may be a provider but I'm not an MD.

[TriciaJ, RN]

She sounds like Queen Bee of the MAs and needs to impress them. Stay cool, calm and professional and mostly ignore her until she crosses another line. Then take her aside and authoritatively tell her what line she has crossed and what is expected of her. She can brag to anyone she wants, but the MAs will see who is professional and who isn't.

[Rokufox]

I've seen a lot of power tripping people, not always nurses (I've seen several lab techs, doctors, and even radiology folks!). It can be overbearing sometimes but in the end I take care of my patients using my best judgement, but it can be hard when there is someone with the intimidating power trip going on. I'm not really sure why there's so much of it in the healthcare field, but it seems to be common in most places I've been. Just remember your scope of practice and don't get pushed into something you don't feel comfortable doing.

[Valcorie34, BSN, MSN, RN]

I may not be a nurse yet (in school). However, I think everyone meets these personality types in life and especially her work. I think the ONLY way to deal with this is directly. If there is a problem then bring it up. Privately, in a discrete manner. There is no need not to be polite and classy. But a direct conversation is in order. Something along the lines of my work contract and information in my employee file is confidential and not to be discussed among other staff. I would also document for yourself this conversation took place. Furthermore if things of that nature keep happening even gossip, disrespectful in the office I would continue to pull them aside and state that their actions are inappropriate and not appreciated. IF it isn't resolved after a few conversations then meet with HR or the owner and let them know you have attempted to handle it on your own.