Final answer:
A young nurse manager can best exercise authority by using critical thinking, giving clear assignments that respect staff expertise, understanding healthcare environments, and fostering a positive, mutual relationship with the team. An autocratic approach is less advisable due to potential resistance.
Step-by-step explanation:
In addressing how a young nurse manager can best exercise authority within an inpatient surgical unit, especially when managing older nurses, several approaches are recommended. First, the manager should use critical thinking to solve problems on the unit, demonstrating competence and decision-making skills that garner respect regardless of age differences. Secondly, it is important to give assignments clearly, with a strong consideration for staff expertise, to show respect for the skills and experiences of older nurses. Understanding complex healthcare environments will aid in navigating the unit's dynamics effectively. However, maintaining an autocratic approach is less advisable as it may create resistance and undermine the manager's efforts to build a collaborative and respectful team culture.
Having a positive and mutually productive relationship with all members of staff is crucial. The nurse manager should be willing to go above and beyond, remain flexible, convey an interest in the organization's mission, respond professionally to feedback, solve problems independently when possible, and seek to contribute to areas that are a priority for the team. By being a dedicated ICU Staff Nurse and demonstrating a mediate contribution to the team, the manager can navigate managing generational differences while leading effectively.