From Banter to Boundary: Navigating Sexist or Offensive Remarks at Work
Working in high-pressure healthcare environments often means relying on teamwork, camaraderie, and humor to navigate stressful shifts. However, when jokes cross the line into inappropriate, sexist, or offensive territory, it can create a toxic work environment and impact staff morale, wellbeing, and impact on staff and patient safety. Addressing these comments can feel daunting, but it’s essential for fostering a respectful and safe workplace.
So what can you do? Below we are going to talk through a framework of managing inappropriate comments, but if you want to know more, you can find more in depth training in our online courses (our next dates are in October/November 2025).
1. Recognise the Impact
Even seemingly “harmless” jokes can perpetuate bias and make colleagues feel uncomfortable, excluded, or undervalued. Before approaching a colleague, reflect on why the comment bothered you. Was it sexist, discriminatory, or demeaning? Understanding the impact allows you to communicate your concerns clearly, rather than reacting emotionally in the moment.
2. Choose the Right Moment
Timing matters. Confronting someone during a busy shift or in front of patients may escalate tension. Whenever possible, find a private moment to have a calm, respectful conversation. A quiet corridor, a coffee break, or even a brief chat after the shift can provide a safer space for dialogue.
3. Use Clear, Non-Confrontational Language
When addressing inappropriate comments, frame your concerns using “I” statements to avoid putting the other person on the defensive. For example:
“I felt uncomfortable when I heard that joke because it seemed sexist.”
“I wanted to mention that comment—it made me feel uneasy, and I thought you should know.”
This approach focuses on your experience rather than accusing or shaming your colleague, which increases the likelihood of a constructive conversation.
4. Explain the Broader Context
Sometimes, colleagues may not realise the impact of their words. Briefly explaining why the comment is inappropriate or harmful can help them understand and adjust their behavior. You might say:
“Comments like that can make the workplace feel unwelcoming for women and non-binary colleagues.”
“Even if it’s meant as a joke, it reinforces stereotypes that can harm our team culture.”
Framing it as a learning opportunity, rather than a personal attack, encourages openness and reflection.
5. Know When to Escalate
If the behavior persists, or if the comment is particularly offensive or harassing, it’s important to escalate to a supervisor, HR, or a Freedom to Speak Up Guardian. Taking action is about maintaining a safe, professional environment for everyone.
6. Support Your Colleagues
Encourage a culture where colleagues feel empowered to speak up. Supporting each other when inappropriate comments occur can reinforce the message that sexism, harassment, or discrimination are not acceptable in your team. Even small interventions, like calmly pointing out a problematic joke, can have a ripple effect.
Addressing inappropriate or sexist comments is never easy, especially in a fast-paced healthcare setting. Yet speaking up is crucial for creating an inclusive and respectful workplace. By approaching conversations thoughtfully, using clear language, and knowing when to escalate, healthcare professionals can help foster a culture where everyone feels safe, valued, and heard—both in and out of scrubs.