Answer to Question 1
Ans: B
Feedback:
The LP/VN as a team member should help the new nurse by assertively and privately talking to the physician about the behaviors seen, and that the conflict between the physician and the nurse needs to be handled in an assertive, professional manner. Although the conflict is between the new nurse and the physician, the new nurse is exhibiting passive behaviors avoiding the conflict by running to the bathroom. Since the conflict occurred in the presence of the more experienced nurse, it also involves her need to support her team member. Reporting the situation, writing an incident report, and checking on the new nurse do not solve the conflict. Agreeing with the physician and asking him what he needs does not solve the conflict and may make it worse. The action does not support the team member either.
Answer to Question 2
Ans: C
Feedback:
The LP/VN should provide the assertion without involving the residents or the client by stating that there is a situation to discuss privately as soon as possible. Assertive statements have I involved and ask that the nurse's rights are valued, but not at the expense of others rights. Once alone with the physician in the conference room, the nurse should follow-up with another assertive statement, such as, Doctor, I am frustrated that you have made distasteful comments in front of the client and in front of your residents, such as 'This is the fat lady who ate her way into a gallbladder attack.' I would appreciate it if you would stop making distasteful comments in the future. Answers A and B are aggressive and are pushy or hostile in tone. Answer D is passive in tone and the nurse is trying to avoid the conflict by hoping the physician may hear the message and change.