Exam 22: Dealing With Disruptive Staff Problems

A nurse admits to diverting narcotic drugs while working. The manager says, "All nurses who admit diverting narcotics have to be reported to the state board of nursing." How should the nurse interpret this statement?

A nurse is suspected of abusing narcotics. A thorough investigation has been performed, and the nurse will now be notified of the suspicion and investigation. How should this notification be handled?

Pharmacy reports that the medication records of a unit have begun to show frequent corrections. What other signs of diversion would the manager look for on the unit? Note: Credit will be given only if all correct choices and no incorrect choices are selected. Select all that apply.

A nurse has been discovered using drugs on the unit. Investigation reveals the nurse has likely been diverting and abusing narcotics for some time. What is the likely the worst outcome for this nurse?

The nurse manager becomes aware of frequent incorrect narcotics counts on the night shift. This is verified by the pharmacy. What should be the first action taken by the manager?

A nurse constantly complains about employee policies and procedures and frequently mentions how "they" are "out to get us." The nurse is surprised when referred to by the manager as "disgruntled" during a discussion of this behavior. What information should the manager provide this nurse?

A nurse manager does not like conflict and would like to allow instances of bullying to "go away on their own." Which rationale by the manager's supervisor is the most important?

The nurse executive works hard to create a civil workplace that does not tolerate harassing behaviors. How would this nurse best explain the reason for this emphasis on civility?

The manager has determined that a nurse is marginal but elects to ignore the situation for now, hoping the nurse's work will improve. What risks has the manager taken by choosing this strategy? Note: Credit will be given only if all correct choices and no incorrect choices are selected. Select all that apply.

A nurse manager is struggling with two marginal nurses and goes to the supervisor for advice. How should the supervisor advise the manager? Note: Credit will be given only if all correct choices and no incorrect choices are selected. Select all that apply.

A nurse manager has had issues with a marginal employee. Staff members have complained several times to the manager regarding this employee's competence. Which action by the manager would be appropriate?

A nurse who is a chronic complainer comes back from lunch 20 minutes late. When confronted by the manager, the nurse says, "The nurses who smoke always take longer lunches. No one says anything to them." What is the manager's major consideration before replying to this statement?