Final answer:
The most professional approach is to respond assertively but maintain professionalism, then confront the nurse privately to discuss the issue, and if necessary, report the incident to the supervisor.
Step-by-step explanation:
If you are confronted by a senior nurse speaking sternly to you in front of patients and relatives, it is important to handle the situation professionally. The best course of action is to respond assertively, maintaining professionalism. This means you should remain calm, speak clearly, and maintain your composure without escalating the situation in front of patients or their relatives. After the situation has been deescalated or at a more appropriate time, confront the nurse privately to discuss the issue. This allows both parties to speak openly about the incident without the added pressure of an audience. In a private setting, express how the confrontation made you feel, and discuss how similar situations could be handled differently in the future. If the behavior continues or if the issue is of a serious nature, it may be necessary to report the incident to the nursing supervisor to address the matter formally.