Nyagwaswa Michael

Muhimbili University of Health and Allied Sciences, Tanzania

Effect of Workplace Bullying on Nurses’ Mental Health and Patient Safety Culture: A Quantitative Study

---

Biography

Nyagwaswa Athanas Michael is an emerging nurse scholar with a Master’s degree in Critical Care and currently a PhD student in Neurology Nursing, focusing on stroke transition care. His research seeks to strengthen continuity of care and improve recovery outcomes for stroke survivors by developing and testing contextually appropriate nursing care models. Michael’s academic interests include nursing practice, nursing leadership, cognitive impairment, and patient safety, reflecting his commitment to advancing nursing as both a science and a practice. With a strong clinical background in critical care, he brings practical experience to his research, enabling him to bridge the gap between theory and practice. He has published and contributed to ongoing research in stroke care and nursing innovation, positioning himself as a future leader in the field. Driven by a passion for patient-centered care, Michael is dedicated to building sustainable nursing frameworks that enhance healthcare systems in Tanzania and beyond.

Abstract

Background

Workplace bullying (WPB) amongst nurses manifests in different forms such as gossiping, false allegations and intimidations. Despite existing workplace disruptive behaviours within the Chinese healthcare systems, limited studies have been undertaken to investigate the phenomenon of WPB. Studies on exposure to WPB amongst colleagues are increasing rapidly with the aim of creating a good work environment that fosters a culture of safety. Therefore, the objective of this study was to determine the frequency, risk factors and impacts of exposure to WPB amongst nursing colleagues in China.

Methodology

About 521 full-time registered nurses working at a tertiary teaching hospital in Mainland China were recruited between May 1st and July 30th, 2021. The frequency of exposure to WPB, impact on mental health, and impact on hospital patient safety culture were assessed using the Negative Acts Questionnaire (NAQ-R 22), the General Health Questionnaire (GHQ-12), and the Hospital Survey on Patient Safety Culture (HSOPSC). Data were analyzed by using SPSS version 24.0.

Results

Among 521 nurses participated in the study, 94 (18%) nurses were exposed to WPB. Multivariate linear regression analysis revealed that young nurses were the common victims (B = 1.626, p = 0.020). Exposure to WPB increased nurses’ mental health symptoms (B = 0.082, p < 0.001) and decreased patient safety culture (B = -0.702, p < 0.001). Furthermore, exposure to WPB indirectly (B = -0.065, p < 0.001) decreased patient safety culture via nurses’ mental health as a mediator.

Conclusion and recommendations

To effectively prevent WPB among nurses, policymakers should mandate the development and enforcement of zero-tolerance policies across healthcare institutions, with clear reporting mechanisms, protection for whistleblowers and consequences for perpetrators.