New Nurses’ Experience with Lateral Violence and Their Decision to Remain in Nursing

Abstract

Lateral violence or bullying in nursing is the antithesis of caring and a profound, pervasive global concern. Survivors of lateral violence exhibit significant negative emotional and physical effects. Approximately one-third of new nurses leave the profession within the first 3 years of practice, citing lateral violence as a determining factor. This study explored the reasons new nurses decided to remain in the profession despite their experiences. Through one-on-one interviews (N= 9), the lived experiences were explored. Six themes emerged: the patients, needed the experience, I got counseling, there was an end, I cried, and nothing changed.