Final answer:
In the unfreezing stage, a nurse manager would focus on making staff aware of the need for change. This stage prioritizes communication and the reassessment of previous assumptions to prepare for the upcoming changes. It lays the foundation for staff's receptivity and planning for the implementation of change.
Step-by-step explanation:
During the unfreezing stage of change, the nurse manager would expect activities that involve creating awareness about the need for change. This stage is about overcoming inertia and dismantling the existing mindsets to prepare for the transition that is about to occur. It typically involves communication to recognize current problems and necessitates rethinking past assumptions.
Specifically, in the context provided, the nurse manager is not immediately focused on setting target dates or implementing the change itself, but rather on making others aware of the need for change. This awareness-building is crucial before any formal planning or implementation occurs because it sets the stage for a smoother transition and increases the likelihood of buy-in from staff and stakeholders.
Considering the challenges outlined, such as competing priorities and funding threats, the unfreezing stage is pivotal for acknowledging these issues and creating a receptive environment for the forthcoming changes. It addresses the concerns and readiness of the staff who may be dealing with various pressures, including the emotional toll from working in non-profit organizations with vulnerable populations.