Disruptive Behavior In the Respiratory Profession

Abstract

BACKGROUND: The purpose of this study was to explore the prevalence, setting, sources, and types of disruptive behavior respiratory therapists experience. Three hypotheses were tested: (1) respiratory therapists experience disruptive behavior in the workplace; (2) verbal disruptive behavior is the most common form reported by respiratory therapists, (3) the incidence of disruptive behavior is higher among bedside caregivers than managers or educators. The greatest source of disruptive behavior is described. METHODS: A 23-question survey gleaned data to evaluate disruptive behavior respiratory therapists may witness or experience at their place of employment. This research was approved by the institutional review board and informed consent was obtained prior to participation. The survey was distributed electronically to respiratory therapists who were members of the American Association for Respiratory Care’s adult acute care, management and education specialty sections. RESULTS: A total of 119 of a possible 3,941 participants (3%) completed the survey. Ninety-six percent of individuals surveyed experienced a form of disruptive behavior. Both hypotheses two and three were not supported. Similarly 96% witnessed a co-worker experiencing a disruptive event. No difference in the type of disruptive behavior was experienced by job category. Bedside caregivers did not experience disruptive behavior more often than department technical directors, educators, or supervisors. Disruptive behavior was deemed unacceptable. “Zero tolerance” initiatives were identified by some participants as a means to control disruptive behavior. CONCLUSIONS: Respiratory therapists in all job categories experience disruptive behavior. Those affected by disruptive behavior were willing to explore effective ways to control disruptive behavior.