Abstract
Background
Surgeons are the physician group most commonly identified as “disruptive physicians.”
The aim of this study was to develop a conceptual model of the results of disruptive
surgeon behavior and to identify the coping strategies used by perioperative staff.
Methods
Perspectives of 19 individuals of diverse occupations in the perioperative setting
were drawn together using a grounded theory methodology.
Results
Effects of disruptive behavior described by participants included shift in attention
from the patient to the surgeon, increased mistakes during procedures, deterrence
from careers in surgery, and diminished respect for surgeons. Individual coping strategies
employed in the face of intimidation include talking to colleagues, externalizing
the behavior, avoidance of perpetrators, and warning others.
Conclusions
Using grounded theory analysis, we were able to elucidate the impact of disruptive
surgeon behavior in the perioperative environment. This conceptual model may be used
to understand and counter the negative effects of manipulation and intimidation of
hospital staff and trainees and to build on current programmatic strengths to improve
surgical environments and training.
Keywords
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Article info
Publication history
Published online: October 21, 2014
Received in revised form:
August 11,
2014
Received:
May 9,
2014
Footnotes
The authors declare no conflicts of interest.
Identification
Copyright
© 2015 Elsevier Inc. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.
