Question

The manager of a surgical area has a vision for the future that requires the addition of RN assistants or unlicensed persons to feed, bathe, and walk patients. The RNs on the staff have always practiced in a primary nursing delivery system and are very resistant to this idea. The best initial strategy in this situation would include:

Option 1: Implementing the new vision without consulting the RNs, as change is often met with resistance.
Option 2: Engaging in open communication with the RNs to understand their concerns and collaboratively develop a plan.
Option 3: Assigning specific tasks to the RNs without seeking their input to expedite the implementation process.
Option 4: Ignoring the resistance and proceeding with hiring unlicensed persons to carry out the envisioned tasks.

Answer 1

The best initial strategy is engaging in open communication with the RNs to understand their concerns and develop a collaborative plan, ensuring buy-in and addressing concerns related to patient safety.

Step-by-step explanation:

The best initial strategy for a manager in a surgical area proposing the addition of RN assistants or unlicensed persons is Option 2: Engaging in open communication with the RNs to understand their concerns and collaboratively develop a plan. Buy-in is crucial when implementing changes in the healthcare environment, as it ensures that all stakeholders are on the same page and can contribute to the success of the new system. By opening a dialogue, the manager can incorporate feedback, which might include concerns about patient safety and the standards of care, and could also address potential resistance by explaining how the change could benefit the RNs and enhance the overall care provided to patients.