Could communication end conflict?
New nurses are in a difficult position to begin with, without dealing with bullying from seasoned nurses. (Put a Stop to Bullying New Nurses," June 2013.*) I've personally seen seasoned nurses hide equipment from students (vital sign carts in particular). I do believe, however, that at times there's a fine line to be walked when it comes to situations defined as bullying. For example, bullying in the article includes both treating nurses like students and giving them too much responsibility with not enough supervision. Perhaps a small portion of bullying behaviors is unintentional and really a communication issue. Better communication in each unit and between nurses could have a positive impact on bullying cases in the workplace.
From RICE to PRICE
"Sprains and Strains" (Patient Education Series, June 2013)* described a familiar therapy: RICE (rest, ice, compression, elevation). Recently, the letter P for protection has been added, changing the acronym to PRICE. Protection from further injury makes sense after any ligament or muscle trauma.
Bedside report: Look at the big picture
In "Change-Of-Shift Report: From Hallways to the Bedside" (Student Voices, August 2013)*, the authors recommend moving patient handoffs to the bedside. I've been around a while, and bedside report worked great when visiting hours were limited and patients stayed long enough to get the teaching they needed. Today, you have to consider who's in the room, what personal electronic devices they're using, and so on. It's easy to inadvertently violate the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act. Bedside report sounds great, but clearing the room, making introductions, explaining terms and lab results, answering questions, and clarifying misunderstandings will add a minimum of 10 minutes per patient to your report time.
Just remember, this should be looked at with an individual eye. Acceptance will be easier if the staff members get to determine what's changed on their unit and a specific time frame is set up.
-JAMIE NEUWIRTH, BSN, RN
Paris, Tex.
-REGINA G. COTTRELL, MN-ED, BS, RN, WCC
Tempe, Ariz.
-KATHIE BAILEY, BSN, RN, HPCN, WOCN
Lewis Center, Ohio
RESOURCE