RN Nursing · Conflict Resolution · Practice question
A nurse manager hears a staff nurse on the unit speak openly about her dislike of a recent policy change regarding client care. When discussing the issue with the nurse, which of the following statements by the nurse manager is appropriate?
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"Being open to change is an expectation of the nurses who work on this unit."
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"You should support this policy change because it was based on evidence-based practice."
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"Why didn't you voice your concerns before the new policy was implemented?"
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✓
"Let's talk about your concerns about the new policy."
Answer & explanation
Correct: "Let's talk about your concerns about the new policy."
Effective nurse managers use open, non-defensive communication when addressing staff concerns about policy changes. Inviting the staff nurse to discuss her concerns validates the nurse's right to have an opinion and creates a psychologically safe environment for dialogue. This approach aligns with conflict resolution and leadership principles that emphasize active listening and respect for differing viewpoints. It also provides the manager with an opportunity to clarify the rationale behind the policy and to gather feedback that may improve implementation. Stating that openness to change is an expectation is dismissive and shuts down communication rather than opening it. Telling the nurse to support the policy because it is evidence-based is similarly dismissive and does not address the nurse's specific concerns, which may be legitimate. Asking why the nurse did not voice concerns earlier is accusatory and backwards-looking, placing blame rather than solving the present issue. The response that best models therapeutic communication, respect for staff autonomy, and constructive leadership is the invitation to talk directly about the concerns, which positions the manager as an approachable, collaborative leader.
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