If a nurse witnesses unethical behavior by a colleague, what should they do?

Reporting the unethical behavior according to organizational policies is the appropriate action for a nurse who witnesses such an incident. This response is essential because it ensures that the concerns are addressed through the proper channels, maintaining both the integrity of the workplace and the safety of patients. Most healthcare organizations have specific protocols in place for reporting unethical behavior, which helps to protect the whistleblower from potential retaliation and ensures that the issue is handled by the appropriate supervisory or regulatory entity.

This approach also emphasizes the nurse's legal and ethical responsibilities to advocate for patient safety and uphold professional standards. By reporting the behavior, the nurse contributes to a culture of accountability and transparency within the healthcare environment, which is crucial for providing high-quality care.

Focusing solely on one’s own work ignores the serious implications of unethical behavior, potentially putting patients and colleagues at risk. While confronting the colleague directly may seem like a straightforward way to address the issue, it could escalate the situation or lead to conflict without any guarantee of resolution. Discussing the behavior with other coworkers might not be appropriate, as it could lead to gossip and confidentiality breaches without ensuring that the matter is properly reported and investigated. Therefore, following organizational policies for reporting is the most responsible and effective course of action.