Am J Clin Pathol. 2026 Jan 5;165(2):aqaf148. doi: 10.1093/ajcp/aqaf148.
ABSTRACT
OBJECTIVE: The prevalence of mistreatment in the laboratory workforce is concerning. This study aimed to develop an antibullying course for laboratories and to pilot-test its effectiveness in improving knowledge, readiness for organizational change, and coping self-efficacy. In addition, it used geographic information system mapping to explore the geospatial distribution of bullying and course participation and to describe the program for potential implementation by other institutions.
METHODS: An 8-module online course was developed for laboratory management and nonsupervisory staff, focusing on best practices to address incivility at the organizational and individual levels. Participants completed a pre-course assessment, including the Short Negative Acts Questionnaire and a pretest, before taking the course. The program’s effectiveness was evaluated by comparing pre-course and post-course scores using paired sample t tests and geospatial analysis.
RESULTS: Of 127 laboratory professionals who completed the pre-course survey, 92 (72.4%) completed the bullying prevention course and post-course evaluation. More than half (55.1%) were classified as victims of workplace bullying, with regional analysis showing the highest bullying intensity in the West and Midwest regions that also showed contrasting course completion rates (85%-87% in the West vs <70% in the Midwest). Post-course assessment revealed statistically significant improvements in participants’ knowledge (mean increase from 2.57 to 3.08, P < .001) and coping strategies (2.60-2.94, P < .001), supporting the course’s efficacy. Most participants (77.2%) rated the course positively.
CONCLUSIONS: The issue is persistent and will require deliberate interventions. The piloted bullying prevention educational platform presented is promising and can be a foundation for future targeted educational interventions for pathology laboratories.
PMID:41643208 | DOI:10.1093/ajcp/aqaf148
