Final answer:
The nurse manager should schedule a staff meeting to discuss the situation.
Step-by-step explanation:
The nurse manager in an outpatient clinic who notices a tense atmosphere among the staff should consider scheduling a staff meeting to discuss the situation. This approach allows for open communication and gives the staff an opportunity to express their concerns and grievances. It also provides a platform for the nurse manager to address the issues and find solutions that can help alleviate the tension and improve teamwork.