Collaborating
to Resolve Practice
Problems

Communicating Problems:
Assessing Styles

Learning from CRNBC's Standards

As a registered nurse, once you have decided that you have a professional practice problem, you are obliged to communicate this information. How you communicate, to whom and where you choose to communicate are factors that will impact on the results of your transaction.

  • Ask your manager for a meeting to discuss the problem
  • Explain how the problem puts clients at risk and conflicts with CRNBC's Standards of Practice or employer guidelines and policies
  • Be specific, factual, include all relevant information, and respect client confidentiality
  • Listen with an open mind to your manager's perspective and pay attention to any new information the manager provides
  • Be prepared to work together to resolve the problem, recognizing that some negotiation and compromise may be necessary
  • Work together to confirm the next steps

After your meeting, follow up in writing with your manager. Send your manager a summary of what was discussed, the response received, and the next steps you agreed upon.