Case Study: Addressing Incivility in Nursing School
Scenario:
Emma, a first-semester nursing student, is excited about starting her journey in nursing
school. She quickly forms a study group with a few classmates, including Sarah and
Jake. During their study sessions, Sarah often interrupts others, dismisses Emma’s
questions as “basic,” and rolls her eyes when Emma struggles with medical
terminology.
During a clinical skills lab, Emma makes a mistake while inserting an IV catheter. Sarah
loudly sighs and says, “Seriously? How did you even get into this program?” The
instructor notices Emma’s frustration but does not address Sarah’s behavior directly.
Over time, Emma becomes anxious about speaking up in class and dreads working in
groups.
Discussion Questions:
1. Identify the Incivility:
a. What specific behaviors in the case study are examples of incivility?
b. How might Sarah’s actions impact Emma’s confidence and learning
experience?
2. Effects of Incivility:
a. How can incivility among classmates affect teamwork and academic
performance?
b. What are the potential long-term consequences of incivility in nursing
education and practice?
3. Professional Response:
a. How could Emma address the situation in a professional manner?
b. What role does the instructor have in preventing and managing incivility in
the classroom?
4. Creating a Positive Learning Environment:
a. What steps can nursing students take to foster a respectful and supportive
learning environment?
b. How can emotional intelligence help in handling difficult peer interactions?
Key Takeaways:
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Incivility in nursing school can hinder learning, lower confidence, and negatively
impact teamwork.
Addressing incivility requires professional communication, peer support, and
faculty intervention.
Emotional intelligence and empathy are essential skills for maintaining a
respectful learning and clinical environment.