Читать книгу Toxic Nursing, 2nd Ed - Cheryl Dellasega - Страница 56

In this situation, Tanya’s behavior is extremely unprofessional. Two key issues seem to be occurring simultaneously within this scenario. First, the use of technology in communicating information must be addressed. Within a matter of minutes, Tanya has managed to involve four other nurses in her unprofessional and inaccurate communication. The second issue involves the derogatory terms used in sharing the information about a colleague.

With regard to the first issue, as the nurse manager, it is important to discuss professional and unprofessional communications both in person and via technology. The most critical message is the need to confirm the accuracy of all information before sending it forward via technology. Because of the speed of communication, inaccurate information can be distributed to known and unknown sources within seconds—and it cannot be easily corrected when new information emerges. Tanya must be reminded of this. It is also important to discuss this issue with the entire staff so that everyone recognizes the power and the detriments of communicating through technology.

With regard to the second issue, this language is unprofessional and disrespectful. Even though the message was intended to be a personal communication, it quickly became a more public message. Tanya’s professional reputation is in jeopardy, and a sincere apology by Tanya to all involved individuals is necessary. The nurse manager should directly address this issue with Tanya and recommend that Tanya apologize for her actions as a first step to rebuilding a professional relationship with Susan and Deandra. Again, discussing the very gray area between personal and professional communications is important. Nurses should be encouraged to always err on the side of caution, especially when sharing information that may have an effect on others.

–Melissa Snyder

Technology can hurt as much as it helps. Many helpful applications can simplify our lives, but the rapid pace of conversations can also lead to messages with inflammatory content being sent to the wrong person. In this situation, Tanya clearly made a mistake, and the sooner she apologizes, the better.

Because this issue occurred during work, it’s a good opportunity to discuss acceptable downtime activities. Establishing a policy for use of personal cellphones and other technologies during work time can prevent more problems with this behavior, but the guidelines would have to be very explicit and consequences for violations clear.

On a higher level, this situation presents an opportunity to address what is likely to be an institution-wide challenge. If other administrators are willing to cooperate and create a policy that will apply to every employee, the intervention will be more powerful. There might be a need to collect data on other types of tech issues that can also be addressed by administrative leaders.

–Cheryl Dellasega