What directive should be followed if a nurse witnesses a conflict between team members that affects the workflow?

Addressing a conflict immediately and encouraging professional behavior is essential in maintaining a positive and effective work environment. When conflicts arise among team members, they can disrupt workflow and impact patient care. By intervening right away, the nurse can help de-escalate the situation, promote open communication, and guide the team members toward a resolution that preserves teamwork and collaboration.

Encouraging professional behavior sets a standard for interaction among team members, reinforcing the importance of respect and cooperation in a healthcare setting. This proactive approach not only helps to resolve the current issue but also fosters a culture where conflicts can be handled constructively in the future.

In contrast, allowing team members to resolve the matter themselves might lead to unresolved tensions and further deterioration of their working relationship. Delegating team members to different areas could temporarily alleviate the conflict, but it does not address the underlying issues and may disrupt overall unit dynamics. Lastly, while documenting the incident is important for record-keeping, it should not replace active intervention in conflicts that directly affect team efficiency and patient outcomes. Thus, immediate action and the promotion of professionalism are critical in ensuring a harmonious and productive work environment.