Reference no: EM133670467

Discussion Post: Capstone- Communication & Conflict Management

Read it well.

Jane is a newly graduated practical nurse working in an acute rehabilitation center on night shift (6:45pm-7:15am). Jane has three small children who she gets ready for school in the am and takes to the bus stop. She explained to her employer when she accepted her position that she must leave on time as she is the sole person responsible for her children. The Director of Nursing stated at that time that "overtime is prohibited. You should always leave on time unless there is a major emergency at change of shift. We are open 24 hours a day, and nursing is a fluid profession that moves from shift to shift."

Jane has found that when she is being relieved by Joanna, she is always late. This has put a strain on Jane's responsibilities at home, and her overnight babysitter has stated that if it happens again, she will need to look for another sitter. This has caused Jane great stress, and today Joana is scheduled to be Jane's relief. Anxiety has been pulling at Jane all night.

At 6:45am. Jane has her report sheet prepared and has all her clients taken care of. She is prepared to give report and leave her duties for the day. It is now 7:00am, and unfortunately, Joanna has not arrived. Jane is becoming more anxious and concerned. Jane is concerned she will not make it home in time to relieve her babysitter as promised.

Joanna arrives at 7:01am. Jane asks Joanna to count narcotics first, and then get report. Joanna agrees. The following conversation then occurs:

Jane states: "Thanks, Joanna, for counting first. I really appreciate it. I am going to give you a brief overview of the clients who have had no changes, and then go in depth with those who are ill or have changes in condition. I have everything written on the report sheet, and I will answer any questions as we go, but I need to leave in 8 minutes."

Joanna replies with a stern loud voice "Who do you think you are? I am not about to take over the unit without a fine tune report. I need to know about everyone, not just those who are sick or getting better. I do not have time to read report. Tell me or I am not taking over."

Jane became very defensive and upset stating "My shift is over. It is 7:18am. If you wanted full report on all clients, you should have been on time. I wrote everything down. I am now leaving. We counted, you have the keys to the medication cart. I am leaving. Have a good day."

Task

1) How could Jane and Joanna both have handled this situation differently?

2) What are examples of therapeutic communication present in the scenario? If there are not any examples, how would recommend incorporating therapeutic communication?

3) What is Jane's legal obligation to her clients and co-workers? Would this be an example of abandoning her clients or is the fact that she left a written report sufficient? Provide rationale for your response.