Lewd, crude, and rude behavior: the impact of manners and etiquette in the general hospital.
Psychosomatics. 2012 Jan;53(1):13-20
Authors: Silverman BC, Stern TW, Gross AF, Rosenstein DL, Stern TA
Abstract
BACKGROUND: Lewd, crude, and rude behaviors of patients and staff members have the potential to complicate care; unfortunately, the medical literature on manners and etiquette is sparse.
OBJECTIVE: We sought to understand the impact of lewd, crude, and rude behaviors in the general hospital and to provide a context in which to educate clinicians about the management of troublesome behaviors of patients and staff members.
METHOD: We reviewed the history of etiquette in the general hospital, and discuss the ethical ramifications and clinical management of inappropriate behaviors.
RESULTS: Lewd, crude, and rude language and behaviors are often heard and seen in the general hospital; such behaviors can be understood in a biopsychosocial context.
CONCLUSIONS: Teaching trainees about manners and etiquette can help them identify and manage offensive behaviors and can facilitate the provision of effective and ethical care.
PMID: 22221717 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]