Question

Which of the following exemplifies the predominant conflict management style of nurse managers?

a. Elizabeth, the head nurse on neurology, finds that Tom, the RN nurse on nights, is irritable in relation to any suggestions or new ideas, and so she comes in to work after Tom leaves the unit.
b. The technology committee has recommended a clinical system for implementation on the nursing unit. Staff is anxious about the change. Tim, the head nurse, asks staff for ideas on how to meet the technology goals and to meet staff needs.
c. During management meetings, George, the head nurse on nephrology, dominates meetings and decisions. Lee, the head nurse on the cardiac step-down unit, begins to miss the management meetings.
d. Ann, RN, asks her head nurse if she can go on the permanent evening shift. The head nurse, Rajib, agrees, as long as Ann agrees to be involved in assisting to mentor evening staff in the use of the new clinical information system.

Answer 1

The predominant conflict management style of nurse managers is reflected in Tim's democratic and collaborative approach, who actively seeks staff input in decision making. This is in contrast to George's authoritarian style and Rajib's transactional style.

Step-by-step explanation:

The predominant conflict management style of nurse managers is exemplified by Tim, the head nurse, who asks staff for ideas on how to meet technology goals and to meet staff needs (Option b). This approach is indicative of a democratic leadership style, where staff participation is encouraged in decision making, with the aim of building consensus and fostering a collaborative environment.

In contrast, George (Option c) demonstrates an authoritarian leadership style by dominating meetings and decisions, which can alienate team members like Lee, who begins to miss meetings. Elizabeth's approach (Option a) avoids confrontation, which is not necessarily a management style but a tactic to avoid conflict, whereas Rajib's agreement with Ann (Option d) falls under a more transactional leadership style, where an exchange is made between the leader and the follower.