Two nurses have worked together for a few months. One nurse will assist others when her work is complete and the other will not assist unless asked by the charge nurse. This has created conflict in the past between the two. Which of the following is an effective strategy to resolve these issues peacefully?

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Tips for conflict resolution
Conflict may arise for various reasons: different priorities, different values, varying perception of events. Following are some strategies to remember in conflict resolution:
1. Choose a private location away from others. This gives everyone the best chance of speaking honestly, rather than posturing.
2. Focus on the issue at hand, not the personalities involved.
3. Focus on an observable goal that can be achieved, whether a large one (eg, "I'd like to see a harmonious workplace where everyone wants to deliver excellent patient care") or a smaller one ("I'd like to see you two work together as a team").
4. Begin by discussing the positive aspects you observe before discussing the negative aspects.
5. Use "I" statements, not blaming.
6. Try to get to the heart of the conflict. It may take time and effort to reveal. For example, one nurse may have "excellent patient care" as her main objective, and the other nurse's primary goal is to "get out on time." As the facilitator of the conflict resolution, you must point out that these goals are not incompatible, and can both be achieved with careful thought ("win-win").
7. Strive for "win-win" rather than "win-lose" outcome. Win-win takes more time and effort, and may require more than one conflict resolution session to achieve.
Sources:
• Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality (2014). Pocket guide: TeamSTEPPS
• Covey, S. R. (2004). Collins, J. (2013). Covey, S. (2013). The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People. Powerful Lessons in Personal Change. (25th Anniversary ed.). New York: Simon & Schuster
• Zerwekh, J., & Garneau, A. Z. (2015). Nursing Today: Transitions and Trends, 8th ed.

Two Nurses Have Worked Together for a Few Months