This discussion will relate to incivility in the workplace and your response as a nurse leader. For this discussion, review the Case Scenarios and choose one that resonates with you.  For your chosen scenario, describe how you would respond using your leadership skills and effective communication techniques. Include the components of the action plan you would create for this scenario including the theoretical basis of your actions and the resources that should be made available. Remember to include your thoughts about: This situation The evidence regarding incivility and communication that you based your response upon The ethical implications of the situation What you learned by participating in this activity Respond to two other students.

QUESTION

This discussion will relate to incivility in the workplace and your response as a nurse leader.

For this discussion, review the Case Scenarios and choose one that resonates with you.  For your chosen scenario, describe how you would respond using your leadership skills and effective communication techniques.

Include the components of the action plan you would create for this scenario including the theoretical basis of your actions and the resources that should be made available.

• Remember to include your thoughts about:
  • This situation
  • The evidence regarding incivility and communication that you based your response upon
  • The ethical implications of the situation
  • What you learned by participating in this activity

Respond to two other students.

ANSWER

Addressing Workplace Incivility as a Nurse Leader: A Comprehensive Action Plan

Introduction

In today’s fast-paced and high-stress healthcare environments, workplace incivility can pose significant challenges to the well-being and productivity of nursing staff. As a nurse leader, it is crucial to respond promptly and effectively to such situations. In this discussion, we will focus on a selected scenario and outline an action plan that incorporates leadership skills and effective communication techniques to address workplace incivility.

Selected Scenario: Scenario 2 – Disruptive Behavior Among Team Members

Situation

In this scenario, a nurse leader is faced with a disruptive team member who displays disrespectful behavior towards colleagues, including making condescending remarks, refusing to collaborate, and undermining the team’s efforts (Grissinger, 2017). The disruptive behavior is causing increased tension and decreased morale among the team, potentially compromising patient care.

Evidence-based Response

To respond to this scenario, it is essential to rely on evidence-based strategies that promote a positive work environment and effective communication. One such approach is the use of assertive communication techniques, which emphasize open and respectful dialogue while addressing conflicts. The theoretical basis for this response lies in the principles of transformational leadership, which focus on creating a supportive culture, fostering collaboration, and empowering team members.

Action Plan

Address the issue directly: Schedule a private meeting with the disruptive team member to discuss their behavior, expressing concern for its impact on the team dynamics and patient care. Use assertive communication techniques, such as “I” statements, active listening, and non-judgmental language, to ensure a constructive dialogue.

Encourage self-reflection: Help the disruptive team member recognize the consequences of their behavior by encouraging self-reflection. Use open-ended questions to promote introspection, allowing them to consider the impact of their actions on both themselves and the team.

Establish clear expectations: Clearly communicate expectations regarding behavior and professionalism. Reinforce the organization’s values, code of conduct, and policies that support a respectful work environment (O’Daniel, 2008b). Emphasize the importance of collaboration and teamwork in providing safe and effective patient care.

Offer support and resources: Provide resources and opportunities for the disruptive team member to improve their interpersonal skills. Offer access to conflict resolution training, emotional intelligence workshops, or coaching sessions to enhance self-awareness and promote positive relationships.

Monitor progress and provide feedback: Regularly follow up with the disruptive team member to assess their progress in modifying their behavior (Hardavella et al., 2017). Provide constructive feedback, acknowledging positive changes and addressing any areas that still require improvement. Recognize and celebrate milestones achieved during this process.

Ethical Implications

Addressing workplace incivility aligns with ethical principles of beneficence and non-maleficence. It ensures the well-being and psychological safety of both staff members and patients. By intervening in this scenario, the nurse leader upholds the ethical duty to promote a culture of respect, trust, and collaboration within the healthcare team.

Key Learnings

Participating in this activity has highlighted the significance of proactive leadership and effective communication in addressing workplace incivility. It is essential for nurse leaders to address disruptive behavior promptly, using assertive communication techniques and evidence-based strategies. By fostering a respectful work environment, nurse leaders can improve staff morale, enhance patient care outcomes, and promote professional growth among their team members.

In conclusion, as a nurse leader, it is crucial to respond to workplace incivility promptly and effectively. By implementing an action plan that incorporates leadership skills, assertive communication, and evidence-based strategies, nurse leaders can foster a positive work environment and promote collaboration among team members. Addressing workplace incivility not only improves staff morale but also enhances patient care outcomes, ultimately contributing to the overall success of the healthcare organization.

References

Grissinger, M. (2017, February 1). Disrespectful Behavior in Health Care: Its Impact, Why It Arises and Persists, And How to Address It—Part 2. PubMed Central (PMC). https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5265230/ 

Hardavella, G., Aamli-Gaagnat, A., Saad, N., Rousalova, I., & Sreter, K. B. (2017). How to give and receive feedback effectively. Breathe, 13(4), 327–333. https://doi.org/10.1183/20734735.009917 

O’Daniel, M. (2008b, April 1). Professional Communication and Team Collaboration. Patient Safety and Quality – NCBI Bookshelf. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK2637/