If you witness bullying by a senior clinician toward a trainee, what is an appropriate response?

• A. Confront the senior clinician publicly to stop the behavior.
• B. Seek support from MWU or appropriate unit and document the incident.
• C. Ignore the behavior and hope it improves on its own.
• D. End the rotation to avoid further exposure.

Answer: (B)

Bullying by a senior clinician undermines professionalism, safety, and learning. The appropriate response is to seek support from the Medical Workforce Unit (MWU) or the relevant unit and document the incident. This path creates a formal record, connects you with confidential guidance and support, and triggers a proper investigation or mediating actions to address the behavior. It also helps protect you and future trainees and fosters a safer learning environment.

Confronting the senior clinician publicly can escalate the situation and risk retaliation or harm, without ensuring due process. Ignoring the behavior ignores harm and allows it to continue. Ending your rotation avoids the issue but does not resolve the problem or prevent it from affecting others. If there is immediate risk to safety, seek urgent assistance through appropriate emergency channels.