A nurse overhears two assistive personnel (APs) disagreeing about client care assignments.
Which of the following actions by the nurse demonstrates conflict resolution?

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.