A conflict you have encountered in your nursing practice

Full Answer Section

     

• Patient: The individual experiencing pain and requiring pain management.

Conflict Description: The patient presented with severe abdominal pain. I performed a comprehensive assessment and documented the patient's vital signs and pain level. Based on the assessment, I believed the patient required stronger pain medication. However, the physician was hesitant to prescribe a higher dosage, citing concerns about potential side effects and dependency. Conflict Resolution and Style: The conflict was resolved through a combination of assertive communication and collaboration. I expressed my concerns about the patient's pain level and the rationale behind my recommendation for a stronger pain medication. I presented my assessment findings and emphasized the patient's need for comfort. The physician listened to my perspective, reviewed the patient's chart, and ultimately agreed to a slightly higher dosage while scheduling additional tests to determine the underlying cause of the pain. Evaluation of Efficacy: This approach proved to be effective. The patient received adequate pain relief, and the physician addressed the potential for medication dependence through further diagnostics. While the initial disagreement existed, open communication and collaborative problem-solving led to a solution that prioritized both pain management and patient safety. Appropriateness of Style: The combination of assertive communication and collaboration was appropriate for this situation. Assertive communication allowed me to clearly express my concerns and advocate for the patient's needs ([Source: Alfaro-LeFevre, R. (2021). Communicating effectively in nursing practice. Wolters Kluwer]). Collaboration fostered a respectful dialogue and enabled us to reach a consensus that addressed both the patient's immediate pain and the physician's long-term concerns. Preferred Conflict Resolution Mode: My preferred mode of conflict resolution in nursing practice is also a combination of assertiveness and collaboration. Assertiveness allows me to effectively advocate for patients while maintaining a professional demeanor. Collaboration fosters teamwork, mutual respect, and the exploration of creative solutions that benefit all parties involved. By prioritizing open communication, active listening, and a focus on the patient's well-being, we can work together to resolve conflicts and deliver the best possible care.  

Sample Answer

   

Conflict in Nursing Practice: Communication Breakdown with Physician

During my time as a registered nurse in the emergency department, I encountered a conflict with a physician regarding a patient's pain management plan.

Stakeholders and Roles:

• Me: Registered Nurse - Responsible for patient assessment, providing comfort measures, and administering medications as prescribed.
• Physician: Attending physician - Overseeing patient care, diagnosing the cause of pain, and prescribing treatment.