A nursing unit is undergoing changes to accommodate new bariatric services that will be available on the unit. Some staff members have verbalized displeasure with the changes. Which of the following actions should the charge nurse take?
A.
Role model a positive approach to the changes.
B.
Redirect the conversation when staff members make negative comments about the changes.
C.
Encourage staff members who support the changes to discuss the issue with resistant staff.
D.
Suggest that resistant staff members transfer to a different unit.
E.
Reprimand staff members who are resistant to the changes.
The Correct answer and Explanation is:
The correct answer is A. Role model a positive approach to the changes.
Explanation:
When implementing changes, especially those as significant as introducing new bariatric services, it is crucial for a charge nurse to manage staff attitudes and foster a supportive environment. Here’s why option A is the most effective approach:
- Leadership by Example: Role modeling a positive approach demonstrates to staff how to handle change constructively. By maintaining an optimistic attitude and openly supporting the changes, the charge nurse can influence staff perceptions and encourage a culture of acceptance and adaptability. Leadership often sets the tone for the entire unit, and when leaders show a positive attitude, it can help shift the overall sentiment of the team.
- Building Trust and Morale: When staff see their leaders embracing changes with a positive mindset, it can help build trust and improve morale. It shows that the leadership is confident in the changes and is committed to making them successful. This confidence can be reassuring to staff members who may be uncertain or resistant to the changes.
- Encouraging Open Communication: A positive role model encourages open communication about concerns or questions. It creates an environment where staff feel safe to express their views constructively rather than simply complaining or resisting. This can lead to productive discussions about how to address concerns and adapt to the changes.
- Avoiding Conflict and Defensiveness: Options B, C, D, and E might exacerbate resistance or create further conflict. Redirecting conversations (B) may suppress legitimate concerns, while encouraging supportive staff to confront resistant colleagues (C) could create divisions. Suggesting transfers (D) or reprimanding staff (E) can be counterproductive and foster resentment, making it harder to achieve buy-in and cooperation.
In summary, role modeling a positive approach is an effective strategy because it sets a constructive example, supports open communication, and fosters a positive work environment. This approach helps in easing the transition, addressing concerns proactively, and building a cohesive team committed to the new changes.