In which situation would a nurse manager utilize the avoiding conflict resolution strategy?

The scenario in which a nurse manager would utilize the avoiding conflict resolution strategy is when addressing a staff conflict without resolution. This strategy is often employed when the conflict seems unresolvable at the moment or when the situation at hand does not warrant immediate conflict engagement.

Using avoidance allows the nurse manager to take a step back and assess the situation without further exacerbating tensions, particularly if the conflict is not critical to patient care or team functionality at that moment. This approach can provide time for emotions to cool and for more constructive dialogue to occur later. It may also be a tactic used when the manager believes that the conflict might resolve itself over time without intervention.

In contrast, actively making final decisions, engaging in collaborative discussions, or training new staff members typically requires a more proactive and direct approach to communication and conflict management. These situations benefit from strategies that encourage dialogue, problem-solving, and team cohesion, rather than avoidance.