Question

If a problem with a team member is not directly or immediately impacting patient care, the team leader should:

A. engage the team member at once.
B. discuss the problem after the call.
C. contact the medical director at once.
D. ignore the problem to avoid conflict.

Answer 1

For a non-urgent team member issue, discuss after patient interactions, maintaining calm, using open-ended questions, and focusing on problem-solving. If unresolved, escalate to a supervisor or HR.

Step-by-step explanation:

When a problem with a team member in a healthcare setting is not directly impacting patient care, the appropriate response is to discuss the problem after the call or patient interaction. It is vital for a team leader to choose words carefully and remain calm, striving to listen to the other side of the story. During the discussion, it is important to avoid suggesting superiority or assigning blame. Instead, asking open-ended questions can help to understand the team member’s position and concerns. By restating what the other person has said, misunderstandings can be minimized. The primary focus should always be on solving the problem, not on being right or blaming someone else. If the issue cannot be resolved amongst the team, it may be necessary to seek guidance from a supervisor or HR department. In the medical field, addressing interpersonal problems effectively is crucial as tensions can eventually affect patient care and the well-being of the staff. Timely conflict resolution helps maintain a professional and supportive work environment for everyone.