Conflict in Nursing Practice: An Analysis

### Conflict in Nursing Practice: An Analysis

#### Application of Course Knowledge

**Describe a Conflict Encountered in Nursing Practice**

In my nursing practice, I encountered a conflict in the Intensive Care Unit (ICU) involving a disagreement between a senior nurse and a junior nurse over patient care procedures. The senior nurse insisted on following a specific protocol for managing a critically ill patient, while the junior nurse believed that adapting the protocol to the patient’s current condition was necessary for better outcomes.

**Stakeholders Involved and Their Roles**

– **Senior Nurse**: Responsible for ensuring adherence to established protocols and providing guidance to junior staff.
– **Junior Nurse**: Tasked with direct patient care and decision-making based on real-time patient assessments.
– **Patient**: The primary beneficiary of the care provided and the central figure around whom the conflict revolved.
– **Nurse Manager**: Mediator and decision-maker in resolving the conflict and ensuring that patient care standards are met.

**Analyze How the Conflict Was Resolved**

The conflict was addressed through a meeting facilitated by the nurse manager. Both nurses were given the opportunity to express their perspectives. The nurse manager listened to both sides and acknowledged the valid points presented by each nurse. The resolution involved a compromise: adhering to the established protocol while incorporating the junior nurse’s suggestions for modifications based on the patient’s current condition. This approach combined elements of the **collaborative conflict resolution style**, emphasizing open communication and mutual respect.

**Evaluate the Efficacy of the Resolution**

The resolution was effective in the short term as it prevented further disagreements and ensured that the patient received timely care. The collaborative approach was appropriate as it fostered teamwork and recognized the contributions of both nurses. However, for long-term efficacy, it highlighted the need for ongoing education and training to address protocol flexibility and decision-making in dynamic clinical settings. Collaborative conflict resolution was indeed the most appropriate option as it promoted understanding and cooperation, crucial in high-stakes environments like the ICU (Johansen, 2012).

**Identify and Describe Your Preferred Mode of Conflict Resolution**

My preferred mode of conflict resolution is the **collaborative style**, which involves open dialogue and finding mutually beneficial solutions. This approach values the input of all parties and aims to achieve a win-win outcome. In nursing practice, where patient safety and care quality are paramount, collaboration ensures that all team members feel heard and respected, leading to more effective and cohesive teamwork (Almost et al., 2016).

#### Integration of Evidence

**Scholarly Source Integration**

Collaboration in conflict resolution is supported by evidence suggesting that it leads to better patient outcomes and improved team dynamics. According to Almost et al. (2016), collaborative approaches in healthcare settings enhance communication, reduce misunderstandings, and foster a positive work environment. Additionally, Johansen (2012) emphasizes that conflict management training, which includes collaborative techniques, is essential for nursing staff to handle disagreements constructively and maintain high standards of patient care.

**Citing Scholarly Sources**

Almost, J., Wolff, A. C., Stewart-Pyne, A., McCormick, L. G., Strachan, D., & D’Souza, C. (2016). Managing and mitigating conflict in healthcare teams: An integrative review. *Journal of Advanced Nursing*, 72(7), 1490-1505. https://doi.org/10.1111/jan.12902

Johansen, M. L. (2012). Keeping the peace: Conflict management strategies for nurse managers. *Nursing Management*, 43(2), 50-54. https://doi.org/10.1097/01.NUMA.0000410920.90831.17

#### Conclusion

Conflict in nursing practice is inevitable due to the high-stress environment and diverse team dynamics. Addressing conflicts effectively requires understanding the underlying issues, involving all stakeholders, and choosing appropriate resolution strategies. Collaborative conflict resolution is particularly effective in nursing as it promotes open communication, mutual respect, and teamwork, ultimately enhancing patient care and team cohesion. Integrating scholarly evidence into conflict management practices further strengthens the ability to handle disputes constructively and maintain a positive work environment.

### References

Almost, J., Wolff, A. C., Stewart-Pyne, A., McCormick, L. G., Strachan, D., & D’Souza, C. (2016). Managing and mitigating conflict in healthcare teams: An integrative review. *Journal of Advanced Nursing*, 72(7), 1490-1505. https://doi.org/10.1111/jan.12902

Johansen, M. L. (2012). Keeping the peace: Conflict management strategies for nurse managers. *Nursing Management*, 43(2), 50-54. https://doi.org/10.1097/01.NUMA.0000410920.90831.17

 

 

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