During a staff meeting, an elderly physician is very negative and disagrees with any proposals for change, directing belittling statements at the unit manager, such as, "No wonder this hospital is such a mess. You generation-X nurses have no commitment to working hard!" How can the unit manager most appropriately deal with this situation?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

It is important to allow the physician to express their opinions, even if they are negative or disagreeable. However, it is important to also provide the opportunity for others to provide input and for the unit manager to redirect the conversation back to the topic at hand. Responding with belittling remarks or reporting the physician to higher-ups may escalate the situation and create a hostile work environment. Asking the physician to leave the meeting would also not be appropriate unless their behavior becomes disruptive beyond the ability to redirect the conversation.

During a Staff Meeting, an Elderly Physician Is Very Negative