A newly licensed nurse is applying for their first job and wants guidance on pay.
Which of the following professional standards should the nurse review?

Choice A rationale:

Tell the APs they are acting immature. Telling the APs that they are acting immature is a judgmental and unhelpful approach. It does not demonstrate conflict resolution but rather exacerbates the conflict. This choice is not appropriate for resolving the situation.

Choice B rationale:

Allow the APs to resolve their issues. While allowing individuals to resolve their issues on their own can sometimes work, it is not always the best approach, especially in a healthcare setting where teamwork and patient care are paramount. In this scenario, the nurse should play an active role in resolving the conflict, making this choice less suitable.

Choice C rationale:

Confront the APs to discuss their argument. Confronting the APs to discuss their argument is a proactive approach to conflict resolution. It allows the nurse to address the issue, mediate the disagreement, and work towards a resolution. This choice is the most appropriate and demonstrates effective conflict resolution.

Choice D rationale:

Report the APs to the charge nurse. Reporting the APs to the charge nurse should be considered when the conflict cannot be resolved at the staff level, and it threatens patient care or safety. However, it should not be the first step in resolving a conflict between two individuals. It is a more formal and escalated approach, and in this case, choice C is a more suitable initial response.

The correct answer is Choice B.

Choice A rationale: Advanced beginners are newly graduated nurses who rely on limited experience and follow guidelines strictly. They cannot yet mentor others effectively because they lack the necessary comprehensive knowledge and practical skills for precepting new staff members.

Choice B rationale: Proficient nurses have a deep understanding of clinical situations through experience. They can recognize patterns, predict outcomes, and provide effective mentorship as preceptors. They are skilled at guiding new staff members and improving their clinical performance.

Choice C rationale: Expert nurses possess an intuitive grasp of clinical situations and make decisions rapidly. While they are highly skilled, the role of preceptor is generally better suited to proficient nurses who are adept at breaking down complex tasks for new learners.

Choice D rationale: Competent nurses have a few years of practice and can plan and manage patient care efficiently. However, they are not yet at the stage where they can fluidly adapt to varying situations or mentor new staff as effectively as proficient nurses.