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Review
. 2020 Jun;90(6):965-969.
doi: 10.1111/ans.15756. Epub 2020 Feb 23.

Five myths about unacceptable behaviour in surgical education

Rhea Liang  1   2 , Adrian Anthony  1   3 , I Anne Leditschke  1   4   5
Affiliations
Review

Five myths about unacceptable behaviour in surgical education

Rhea Liang et al. ANZ J Surg. 2020 Jun.

Abstract

Recent evidence of the occurrence of discrimination, bullying and sexual harassment in surgery and more generally within healthcare has led to widespread discussion about the effects of unacceptable behaviour in surgical education and practice. Despite accumulating evidence of the adverse effects of unacceptable behaviour in clinical practice, not only on health care professionals but on patient care and outcomes, many surgeons and other health care professionals continue to embrace false perceptions about appropriate professional behaviour, interactions and approaches to teaching within surgical departments and more generally within healthcare institutions. This article explores five misperceptions about unacceptable behaviour in surgical education and provides evidence that supports a change in practice.

Keywords: bullying; discrimination; sexual harassment; surgical education.

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References

    1. Crebbin W, Campbell G, Hillis DA, Watters DA. Prevalence of bullying, discrimination and sexual harassment in surgery in Australasia. ANZ J. Surg. 2015; 85: 905-9.
    1. Mathews B, Bismark MM. Sexual harassment in the medical profession: legal and ethical responsibilities. Med. J. Aust. 2015; 203: 189-92.
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    1. Lillebuen S. Senior female surgeon urges trainees to stay silent on sex abuse in hospitals. The Sydney Morning Herald. 7 March 2015.
    1. Medew J, Hatch P, Lillebuen S. Silence about sexual harassment in hospitals a major issue, doctors say. The Sydney Morning Herald. 9 March 2015.

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