Question

A concern that nurses were being asked to perform tasks that went beyond the state's nurse practice act was brought to the union's attention. Nurses were informed that either mediation or binding arbitration will be used to resolve the issue. A novice nurse asks about the difference between these techniques and is informed that:

a. mediation is sanctioned by the National Labor Relations Board (NLRB) to formally discuss concerns with management and labor.
b. binding arbitration is a formal discussion between labor and management in which the arbitrator's recommendations are compulsory.
c. mediation uses a trained person to negotiate a legally binding plan.
d. binding arbitration requires both labor and management to participate in discussions on the least destructive approach to allow self-governance by employees.

Answer 1

Mediation and binding arbitration are techniques used to resolve disputes between management and labor. Mediation involves a trained mediator facilitating a discussion, while binding arbitration involves a neutral arbitrator making a legally binding decision.

Step-by-step explanation:

Mediation and binding arbitration are both techniques used to resolve disputes between management and labor. Mediation involves a trained mediator who helps facilitate a discussion between the two parties and works towards a mutually agreeable solution. The mediator does not have the power to make a legally binding decision. On the other hand, binding arbitration is a formal process where a neutral arbitrator listens to both sides and makes a final decision that is legally binding on both labor and management.