In the cardiac intensive care unit, there has been simmering disconten

QUESTION

In the cardiac intensive care unit, there has been simmering discontent about the new nurse manager, who avoids any discussion about her scheduling and practice decisions.

The staff have begun to sort into “different camps” depending on how they feel about the manager or the decisions. Which of the following statements MOST accurately describes this situation?

a. The tension that has been generated will result in creative solutions.
b. Staff will become a cohesive group that takes a stand against the manager.
c. The conflict will result in increased dialogue about practice and scheduling options.
d. Patient care may suffer because attention and energy is being diverted toward the unit relationships.

ANSWER:

ANS: D
Destructive conflict polarizes groups, saps group morale, deepens differences in values, and diverts energy from more important activities, such as patient care. Constructive conflict opens up issues of importance, results in solutions to problems, and enables authentic communication.