OBJECTIVE:

The aim of this study was to explore blame-related distress (B-RD).

BACKGROUND:

No research exists describing the incidence and characteristics of consequences of blame.

METHODS:

Survey research was used to explore the incidence, characteristics, and consequences of the distress caused by blame in the workplace.

RESULTS:

B-RD is prevalent among intensive care and oncology staff. Participants reported an organizational impact to B-RD in terms of staff morale, turnover, and employee health. Management, physicians, and peers were the most frequently cited source of blame.

CONCLUSIONS:

A proposed model is described to relate blame to other similar constructs