What should Frank advise Connie to do about bullying by the nursing manager on the unit?

• A. Report the bullying directly to the nursing manager
• B. Ignore the situation and continue nursing duties
• C. Seek personal legal counsel
• D. Encourage Connie to talk to the union representative

Answer: (D)

Dealing with bullying on the job is best handled through formal support channels and the processes provided by the workplace. When the person causing the bullying is in a position of authority, turning to the union representative gives Connie confidential, contract-based guidance on her rights and the proper steps to take. The union rep can help document what’s happened, explain the available remedies, and may accompany Connie to meetings, ensuring actions follow the collective bargaining agreement and protecting her from retaliation. This approach moves the issue into a structured process focused on a fair resolution and on keeping both staff and patients safe.

Reporting directly to the manager is risky here because the manager is the source of the problem, and informal reporting may not yield a fair or safe outcome. Ignoring the situation lets the bullying continue and harms both Connie and the unit. Seeking personal legal counsel is not usually the first step when a union-based process exists, which is specifically designed to address workplace harassment and protect employees under the contract.