A staff nurse confronts a nurse manager expressing that she believes the manager’s scheduling decisions are unfair. Which of the following responses by the nurse manager exhibits assertiveness?
I believe I am rightly following our agency’s scheduling policies. Could you elaborate on your concerns?
Why do you think I am being unfair? Your emotions are clouding your judgment.
You shouldn’t make accusations or imply your own shortcomings too.
I’m sorry, I will try to be more fair from now on.
I’m sorry, I will try to be more fair from now on
The Correct Answer is A
Choice A Reason:
I believe I am rightly following our agency’s scheduling policies. Could you elaborate on your concerns? This response demonstrates assertiveness by acknowledging the nurse’s concerns and inviting further discussion. It shows that the nurse manager is confident in their actions but is also open to understanding the staff nurse’s perspective. This approach fosters open communication and problem-solving, which are key components of effective leadership.
Choice B Reason:
Why do you think I am being unfair? Your emotions are clouding your judgment. This response is dismissive and confrontational. It invalidates the staff nurse’s feelings and implies that their concerns are not legitimate. Such a response can escalate the conflict and damage the working relationship between the nurse manager and the staff nurse.
Choice C Reason:
You shouldn’t make accusations or imply your own shortcomings too. This response is defensive and accusatory. It shifts the focus from the issue at hand to the staff nurse’s behavior, which is not constructive. Effective communication should address the concerns directly without making personal attacks.
Choice D Reason:
I’m sorry, I will try to be more fair from now on. While this response shows a willingness to change, it lacks assertiveness. It implies that the nurse manager agrees with the accusation of unfairness without seeking to understand the specific concerns. Assertiveness involves standing by one’s decisions while being open to feedback and discussion.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A Reason:
The conflict can help nurses better identify their common values. While conflict can sometimes lead to positive outcomes, such as a deeper understanding of shared values and improved communication, it often requires effective conflict resolution strategies and a supportive environment. In the context of a new policy that has already sparked mistrust, it is less likely that the immediate outcome will be positive without deliberate efforts to address the underlying issues.
Choice B Reason:
Diverted attention and energy from patient care may potentially impact patient well-being. This is a significant concern in healthcare settings, especially in intensive care units where patient needs are critical. When nurses are preoccupied with internal conflicts and mistrust, their focus on patient care can be compromised, leading to potential negative outcomes for patients. Ensuring that the team remains cohesive and focused on patient care is essential for maintaining high standards of care and patient safety.
Choice C Reason:
The policy change, being the correct choice, will improve the overall unit performance. This statement assumes that the policy change is inherently beneficial and that its positive effects will be immediately apparent. However, even well-intentioned policies can face resistance if not properly communicated and implemented. The initial mistrust and conflict may hinder the potential benefits of the policy, at least in the short term.
Choice D Reason:
When observing the favorable results of the decision, the dissenting nurses may recognize their previous stance was mistaken, promoting unity within the group. While this outcome is possible, it is not the most likely immediate outcome given the initial mistrust and conflict. It often takes time for the positive effects of a policy change to become evident and for dissenting team members to change their perspectives. Effective leadership and communication are crucial in facilitating this process.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Choice A Reason:
Continuing education. Continuing education is essential for nurses to stay updated with the latest medical knowledge and practices. It ensures that nurses maintain their competencies and can provide high-quality care. However, while continuing education contributes to professional development, it is not the primary factor highlighted by the ANA Systematic Practices for overall organizational improvement.
Choice B Reason:
Endorsement. Endorsement refers to the formal approval or support of a nurse’s qualifications and competencies by a recognized authority. While endorsement is important for validating a nurse’s skills and knowledge, it does not directly address the broader concept of intellectual capital and its impact on organizational improvement.
Choice C Reason:
Accreditation. Accreditation is the process by which an organization or program is evaluated and recognized as meeting certain predetermined standards. It is crucial for ensuring the quality and credibility of nursing programs and healthcare institutions. However, accreditation alone does not encompass the comprehensive development of nurses’ intellectual capital.
Choice D Reason:
The development of nurses’ knowledge, skills, and attitudes, thereby enriching the profession. This choice best aligns with the ANA Systematic Practices. The development of intellectual capital—encompassing knowledge, skills, and attitudes—is fundamental to enhancing the quality of healthcare and fostering professional growth. By investing in the continuous development of these attributes, nurses can contribute more effectively to patient care and organizational improvement.
Choice E Reason:
Entrepreneurship. Entrepreneurship in nursing involves innovative approaches to healthcare delivery and management. While it can drive improvements and introduce new solutions, it is not the primary focus of the ANA Systematic Practices related to intellectual capital and overall organizational improvement.
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