Sabotaged at Work

Dear Targeted,

The question is not how to deal with uncivil behavior, because this goes far beyond incivility. Uncivil behavior is being ignored when you greet someone, or otherwise being treated impolitely. 

What you're describing is out-and-out malicious behavior. If you're working in an environment where no one thinks lying and sabotaging patient care assignments is a big deal, you're in a toxic workplace.

Toxic workplaces take many forms, but they all foster low morale and high turnover. Patient care suffers because energy is channeled away from patients and towards drama and dysfunction. 

Favoritism, cliques, and bullying flourish. Employees may hoard supplies and equipment if there's a feeling of "each man for themselves" and lack of teamwork. Managers are weak and part of the problem.

This is no place for you. An employee who wants to perform well and give good patient care will be undermined, and will suffer burnout and worse. You even begin to question your own sanity, and wonder if you're over-reacting. Toxic workplaces, once established and allowed to exist, rarely get better. They can affect your mental health.

The question is "How do I get out of here?"

Start looking for another job because it's easier to find another job when you're still employed. I hope you find one sooner than later, and best wishes to you. 

Nurse Beth