Sexual Harassment and Hostile Environments in the Perioperative Area

Nursing has dealt with sexual harassment since the era of Florence Nightingale. Despite legislation and increased media attention, perioperative nurses continue to experience frustration, embarrassment, and psychological and economic repercussions because of sexual harassment. Prevention of sexual harassment must encompass individuals, employers, and the health care profession as a whole. Individuals can take steps to stop sexual harassment by reporting the incidents and confronting the harassers. Employers have a legal responsibility to maintain work environments that discourage sexual harassment. Policies and procedures strictly prohibiting sexual harassment should be well publicized and supported strongly by management. Sexual harassment prevention programs should include medical staff members, because studies indicate most harassers are physicians. Awareness and prevention are the first steps to establishing and maintaining healthy workplaces that are free of sexual harassment.