Standing Up for Yourself
Some doctors are notorious for having tempers and throwing tantrums. You will most likely be witness to, or the subject of one of these, sooner or later. If you were wrong, say so. Be honest and up front at all times. If you say something like, “You have every right to be angry. I would be furious too,” you'll defuse the situation somewhat. Let them vent. If you weren't in error, say so. Stand up for yourself, but don't let them get you caught up in their theatrics.
Never make a scene in front of the patient. If the physician chooses to demonstrate her unprofessional behavior in such a manner, let her. You should have more respect for yourself and your patients than that. Ask to speak to her privately later and let her know that she was rude or inappropriate. You don't appreciate being spoken to in that manner. You would not treat her this way, and you expect her to show the same level of respect for you. Even if you were wrong, she has no right to reprimand you in front of the patients and your peers. You are entitled to privacy for this kind of conversation.
Many hospitals have instituted policies and rules that require physicians to attend classes on how to treat nurses and other health care staff and professionals. The airlines instituted this for pilots several years ago after a number of work-related lawsuits were brought by flight attendants against the pilots for similar behaviors.
Issues of violence in the workplace include verbal abuse and threats. Employers can be liable for not protecting employees from this kind of behavior. Nurses for far too long were subservient to doctors, and it is something not to be tolerated any longer. Health care facilities often placed a greater value on the revenue these physicians brought in than on the value of their employees. Those facilities that still adhere to this practice not only open themselves to the liability issues, but also to tremendous problems with retention of staff.
Physicians can also be intimidating just because of their vast knowledge and education. New nurses especially can fall prey to this. What you always need to remember is to put the respective roles into perspective. Your role is just as vital to the patient, but in a different way. Respect the physician's knowledge and tap into it as often as you can. But know that it doesn't make him a better person or more of a professional than you.
