Which statement best describes how a nurse manager might facilitate a

QUESTION

Which statement best describes how a nurse manager might facilitate a positive change in an employee?

1. The nurse manager threatens to decrease evaluation scores if the behavior
continues.
2. At the end of each week, the nurse manager will offer verbal encouragement to
the staff member if the desired level of behavior is met.
3. If the behavior continues, the nurse manager will order the staff member to work
overtime.
4. The nurse manager threatens to refuse break periods if the behavior continues.

ANSWER:

Answer: 2

Rationale: When the nurse manager facilitates behavior changes instead of ordering them, staff are much more motivated to change unwanted behaviors. Positive reinforcements are more likely to promote positive changes. Threats are not a productive manner in which to motivate staff. The evaluation process will be called into play if the staff member does not conform to the desired level of behavior, but it should be a known consequence for behaviors noted, not based upon threats. Working overtime is based upon need for the unit, not related to staff member discipline. Legally, members of the nursing staff are entitled to break periods. Restricting lunch or break periods for discipline could be cause for the nurse manager to receive a reprimand.