ABSTRACT
BACKGROUND: Incivility in health care settings was first identified in 1976. The Institute of Medicine has called for a safer health care environment, and the Joint Commission emphasizes that disruptive behavior compromises patient safety. Incivility in nursing is a topic of interest, yet it had not been explored as a social process. AIM: The purpose of this study was to acquire an understanding and develop a theory to address incivility in nursing. METHOD: Twenty-nine RNs were interviewed based on Charmaz's constructionist grounded theory. RESULTS: Four categories emerged (neglecting, alienating, relinquishing, and finding oneself) that developed into the theory of self-positioning. CONCLUSION: To understand incivility in nursing, one must, immersed within the institution, profession, and society, find and position the self. It is only then that we can address the health and well-being of RNs, provide quality care, and ensure patient safety.
