Question

A nurse manager is preparing an inservice program about managing conflict for the nurses on the unit. The nurse manager should identify which of the following examples as interpersonal conflict?

A. Nurses on the unit disagree about what time of day daily client weights should be obtained.
B. A nurse is uncertain about joining a professional nursing organization.
C. A nurse who just lost his spouse does not want to be assigned to care for a terminally ill client.
D. An experienced nurse is uncivil to a newly licensed nurse.

Answer 1

The interpersonal conflict example is A. Nurses on the unit disagree about what time of day daily client weights should be obtained. This involves a clash between individuals at work, requiring effective conflict resolution strategies to maintain a positive work environment.

Step-by-step explanation:

The example of interpersonal conflict that a nurse manager should identify when preparing an inservice program about managing conflict would be A. Nurses on the unit disagree about what time of day daily client weights should be obtained. This situation reflects a clash between colleagues over job responsibilities or preferences, which is at the heart of interpersonal conflict. This distinguishment is important as interpersonal conflicts occur between individuals and can involve differences in beliefs, values, opinions, and actions. Managing these conflicts is essential to maintain a positive work environment and promote effective team functioning.

Moreover, if conflicts remain unresolved, they may lead to negative consequences such as stress, diminished team morale, staff departures, and lost productivity. Therefore, the inclusion of strategies to handle interpersonal conflicts in a nurse manager's inservice program is critical. It should aim to equip nurses with the skills required for effective conflict resolution, fostering a supportive and healthy work atmosphere.