Sexual harassment: how should management handle it?

Sexual harassment is against the law and can place health care facilities at substantial risk in lawsuits as well as disrupt their caring and professional atmosphere. In some cases, health care facilities are held responsible for nonemployees' harassment of employees, as well as for harassment by employees. In addition, if an employee receives benefits such as a promotion in exchange for sexual favors, the organization may be liable for discrimination against persons who did not receive such benefits. The Equal Employment Opportunity Commission has established guidelines for identifying and redressing instances of sexual harassment. They instruct health care facilities to issue a policy statement explaining to employees the institution's opposition to sexual harassment and outlining procedures for lodging a complaint. It is strongly recommended that health care facilities: Investigate complaints thoroughly, tactfully, and evenhandedly. Establish a progressive discipline schedule and administer it consistently to all employees. Document the investigatory and decision making process.