A legal consultant recommends that the nurse manager and staff members create a group agreement before addressing conflicts. According to Yoder Wise and Sportsman, agreements about how team members will collaborate are essential because:

Choice A Reason:

Human beings tend to be untruthful by default and may not cooperate effectively unless they are held accountable. While accountability is important in any team setting, the statement that human beings tend to be untruthful by default is a broad generalization and not the primary reason for creating group agreements. Group agreements are more about fostering a positive and collaborative environment rather than assuming negative behavior from the outset.

Choice B Reason:

In the absence of agreements, there is an unspoken approval for individuals to conduct themselves however they please. This choice highlights the importance of having clear guidelines to prevent chaos and ensure everyone understands the expected behavior. However, it does not fully capture the essence of why agreements are crucial for team collaboration and conflict resolution.

Choice C Reason:

Agreements help differentiate between team members who cooperate effectively and those who are less productive. While agreements can help identify productive behaviors, their primary purpose is not to single out individuals but to create a cohesive and supportive team environment. The focus is on collective success rather than individual performance.

Choice D Reason:

Agreements emphasize that despite disagreements and gossip that may arise during meetings, these conflicts are never aimed at individuals personally. This choice best captures the essence of why group agreements are essential. They provide a framework for respectful communication and conflict resolution, ensuring that disagreements are handled professionally and do not become personal attacks. This helps maintain a positive team dynamic and fosters trust among team members.

Choice A Reason:

Follower implies that the nurse manager is taking direction from others rather than leading the situation. In this context, the nurse manager is actively addressing an issue, proposing solutions, and seeking input from the staff, which are leadership behaviors. Therefore, the role of a follower does not accurately describe the nurse manager’s actions in this scenario.

Choice B Reason:

Leader is the most appropriate role for the nurse manager in this situation. By calling a staff meeting, proposing a solution, and asking for input, the nurse manager is demonstrating leadership qualities. Effective leaders engage their team in problem-solving, encourage collaboration, and guide the team towards a resolution. This approach helps in addressing the issue effectively while fostering a supportive and inclusive work environment.

Choice C Reason:

Manager refers to the administrative and organizational responsibilities of the nurse manager. While the nurse manager is indeed managing the situation, the emphasis in this scenario is on leadership. The actions described—proposing a solution and seeking staff input—highlight the nurse manager’s role as a leader rather than just a manager. Leadership involves inspiring and motivating the team, which is crucial in handling complex situations like this.

Choice D Reason:

Regulator implies a role focused on enforcing rules and policies. While maintaining standards and policies is part of a nurse manager’s responsibilities, the scenario described involves more than just regulation. The nurse manager is actively engaging with the staff to find a solution, which is a leadership activity. Therefore, the role of a regulator does not fully capture the nurse manager’s actions in this context.