Which of the following situations is an example of lateral violence? (Select all that apply.)
A nurse criticizes another nurse for not managing a client's pain appropriately.
A provider raises her voice to the charge nurse to show dissatisfaction with a decision.
A nurse is complaining at the nurses' station about another nurse on the unit.
A group of nurses is attending an in-service regarding lateral violence.
A nurse avoiding a newly hired nurse in order to make him feel isolated.
A nurse discovers a medication error and teaches the nurse who made the error about proper procedure.
Correct Answer : A,B,C,E
Choice A rationale
Criticizing a colleague's professional judgment, such as pain management, exemplifies lateral violence. This behavior undermines professional competence and can create a hostile work environment, leading to increased stress and decreased team cohesion. Such actions violate principles of collegiality and respect, potentially impacting patient care indirectly due to a breakdown in communication and trust among healthcare providers.
Choice B rationale
A provider raising her voice to the charge nurse demonstrates an abuse of power and constitutes lateral violence. This aggressive communication style disrupts the professional environment, intimidates staff, and can lead to a sense of disrespect and powerlessness among nurses. Such behavior inhibits open communication and collaboration, essential for effective patient care delivery and a healthy work culture.
Choice C rationale
Complaining about a colleague at the nurses' station is a form of passive-aggressive lateral violence, often termed "gossiping.”. This behavior erodes trust, fosters a negative work environment, and can isolate the targeted individual, diminishing morale and professional relationships. It creates an atmosphere of distrust and hinders effective teamwork and communication among nursing staff.
Choice D rationale
Attending an in-service regarding lateral violence is an educational and proactive measure to address and prevent such behaviors. It is not an example of lateral violence itself. Instead, it represents a positive step towards fostering a healthier work environment by increasing awareness and providing strategies for identifying and mitigating disruptive behaviors within the healthcare team.
Choice E rationale
Deliberately avoiding a newly hired nurse to make them feel isolated is a clear instance of lateral violence. This ostracizing behavior aims to exclude and disempower the new individual, hindering their integration into the team and potentially impacting their confidence and performance. Such actions create an unwelcoming and hostile environment, undermining team cohesion and support systems.
Choice F rationale
Teaching a nurse about proper procedure after a medication error is a constructive, supportive, and educational response. This action promotes learning and professional development, aiming to improve practice and prevent future errors. It is an example of a supportive peer interaction focused on patient safety and professional growth, not lateral violence, which is disruptive and harmful.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A rationale
Role-modeling involves demonstrating desired behaviors or attitudes for others to emulate. While the nurse might implicitly role-model professional engagement, the primary activity described—gathering information at a meeting—is more active and reciprocal than simply observing and imitating. It emphasizes direct engagement rather than passive observation.
Choice B rationale
Networking involves building and maintaining relationships with others in the same profession or field for mutual benefit, such as sharing information, resources, or opportunities. Attending a professional organization meeting to gather information on a new healthcare policy is a quintessential example of networking, facilitating professional growth and knowledge exchange.
Choice C rationale
Coaching typically involves a more structured relationship where an individual provides guidance and support to another to develop specific skills or achieve particular goals. While elements of learning are present, the scenario focuses on information gathering from a group, not individualized skill development under direct guidance.
Choice D rationale
Mentoring is a long-term, supportive relationship where an experienced individual guides a less experienced person in their career development. While professional meetings can lead to mentorship opportunities, the immediate action described—gathering information on a policy—is a discrete activity rather than an ongoing developmental relationship.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A rationale
While professional organizations may offer continuing education, the primary function of the American Nurses Association (ANA) is not to provide general training programs for nursing competencies. Training programs are typically offered by educational institutions or specialized organizations focused on specific skill sets, whereas the ANA focuses on broader professional development and advocacy.
Choice B rationale
The Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN) and the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) are the bodies responsible for ensuring the national accreditation of nursing schools. The ANA's role is not in the direct accreditation process but rather in supporting quality nursing education through various initiatives and standards development.
Choice C rationale
The American Nurses Association (ANA) serves as the primary professional organization representing the interests of all registered nurses in the United States. A key function is to advocate for nurses through lobbying efforts, policy development, and political action, thereby providing political representation and influencing healthcare legislation on behalf of the nursing profession.
Choice D rationale
Nurse licensing in each state is regulated by individual state boards of nursing, not by the American Nurses Association (ANA). State boards are governmental agencies responsible for protecting the public by establishing and enforcing nurse practice acts, issuing licenses, and addressing disciplinary matters, independent of professional organizations like the ANA.
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