A narrative review of the unprofessional behaviors of physicians at workplace

Abstract

Introduction: To become an ethical physician and a good professional is the fundamental duty of a doctor. The complaints regarding medical professional behaviors are usually related to doctor practice management, doctor’s manner, medical reports/records, and inappropriate behavior.
Objective: This review aims to see the concerning unprofessional behaviors and unethical conduct of physicians toward patients. The literature was reviewed to identify the common unprofessional behaviors among doctors.
Methods: A Narrative review was done, and databases explored were PubMed, Google Scholar, PsycINFO, Science direct, ERIC & Pak Medinet. A literature search was done regarding unprofessional behaviors by doctors at the workplace. Selected studies related to professional ethics, unprofessional workplace behaviors by doctors, professionalism, and patient experiences during their treatment were identified.
Results: Various items reported as unprofessional behaviors were identified and are classified into five themes: dishonesty, substandard
practice, unethical behavior, disrespect & behaviors related to doctor manners.
Conclusion: Unprofessional behaviors are reported in different health care settings. Professionalism holds a central position to fulfill
the expectations of the patients and for addressing disrespectful behaviors.

KEYWORDS: Unprofessional behaviors, Workplace, Physicians