1.1 Defining the problem

1.1.1 Workplace bullying

Definitions vary for workplace bullying. For the purposes of this audit, workplace bullying is defined as repeated and unreasonable behaviour directed towards a worker or a group of workers that creates a risk to health and safety.

Unreasonable behaviour refers to behaviour that a reasonable person, having considered the circumstances, would see as unreasonable and includes that which victimises, humiliates, intimidates or threatens.

1.1 Patient safety

Patient safety is about avoiding and reducing actual and potential harm. An ageing and increasing population, a constrained health budget, and increasing patient complexity—where patients present with multiple diseases or disorders—are all creating increasing challenges for hospitals to effectively manage patient safety. While patient safety is related to quality of patient care, it differs in that it focuses on potential risks, rather than on whether the care has resulted in the best outcome.