Avoiding and managing conflict while on assignment
Given an option, most of us choose to avoid becoming involved in any type of conflict, at work or at home. Alas, we're human, and so is everyone around
us. Despite our best efforts to "keep the peace" and maintain harmony, conflict arises from time to time. And that's not all bad. Sometimes conflict is
warranted and leads to changes that result in improved systems and practices. In the healthcare setting, such improvements may result in better patient
care.
Conflict may arise as the result of poor communication, unmet expectations, unwarranted criticism, differing opinions about how something should be
done, inconsistent leadership, overactive egos, and personality clashes. Unresolved conflict in the workplace can lead to low morale and high turnover,
low productivity and high stress.
So, with the above nod to the upside of conflict, let's assume that, in most instances, the workplace is better off without clashes, quarrels,
disagreements, and standoffs between physicians and those they work with - other doctors, nursing staff, technicians, and the rest of the support team.
As a locum tenens practitioner, how can you avoid and manage conflict while on assignment?
Get the lay of the land.
Upon arriving at a new location, ask your supervising physician or an administrator about any ongoing challenges or tensions you may be walking into,
and inquire about the culture of the organization. Does the department tend to be upbeat and casual, or serious and highly structured? Are there
political minefields you should avoid? Advance warning can be very helpful when you're the "new doctor."
Behave like a guest.
One excellent way to avoid conflict is to make sure you're not the cause of it. From day one in a new hospital or clinic, exhibit an appropriate
balance between confidence and humility. Be friendly (but not too familiar) with everyone. Ask questions when you're not sure about something, and
thank those who help make your first days and weeks manageable. Respect "the way things are done." Bring your accumulated knowledge to each new
assignment, but be subtle about it.
Don't sweat the small stuff.
Characteristics of successful locum tenens physicians include flexibility and the ability to work with a wide variety of people. So, what should you do
if your medical assistant has an annoying habit like talking to herself or leaving her workstation is disarray? Leave it alone. Choose your battles,
and only go to the mat over those that really matter.
Avoid existing disputes.
Don't get in the middle of ongoing conflicts that have nothing to do with you. You're on location for a few weeks or perhaps a few months. The
longstanding war of wills between Dr. Smith and the nursing supervisor is not your concern. Ignore it. Don't talk about it with others. Don't take a
side.
Assess situations objectively.
If a disagreement is building up to the level of true conflict, don't jump in too quickly. Take a moment to breathe and, if necessary, employ the
"count to ten" technique if you need to calm down. Then, objectively assess the situation (including your part in it) to determine if this particular
conflict is one that should be ignored, addressed one-on-one, or mediated by someone other than you.
Have adult conversations.
When a conflict needs to be addressed directly, speak privately and candidly to the individual with whom you are having difficulty. Avoid being
judgmental or accusatory. Don't raise your voice or use a belittling tone. Be respectful, sensitive, and empathetic. Adult to adult, many disagreements
can be handled effectively with one honest conversation.
Take appropriate action if the stakes are high.
Is patient safety at risk? Is your license, professional reputation, or reputation of the organization on the line? If so, take the issue to someone in
a position of authority - head nurse, department director, supervising physician, or administrator.
Contact your recruiter.
If you're on location and conflict heats up to a point that you're unsure about what to do, contact your NALTO ( nalto.org) agency recruiter immediately. He or she will intervene on your behalf, up to and including pulling you
from the assignment if indicated. Fortunately, that rarely happens, but know that you have backup if you need it.
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By Karen Childress, October 15, 2011
As every physician knows, eating well and exercising are two key factors in preventing illness and disease and for maintaining optimal health. But as every locum tenens physician knows, making good food choices and finding time for regular workouts while on the road is no easy task. Here are practical tips for staying fit and healthy while traveling.
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By Karen Childress, September 15, 2011
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As every physician knows, eating well and exercising are two key factors in preventing illness and disease and for maintaining optimal health. But as every locum tenens physician knows, making good food choices and finding time for regular workouts while on the road is no easy task. Here are practical tips for staying fit and healthy while traveling.
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Much like obtaining staff privileges at hospitals, the process of getting state medical licenses is becoming more arduous
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A sizeable percentage of physicians are altruistic by nature and give of themselves—professionally and personally—in various
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Within the locum tenens industry, there are ethical guidelines that, when followed, make life easier for all involved—from the physicians and the facilities where they practice, to the locum tenens agencies that put the two parties together. Here are a few things every physician should know about ethics and locum tenens practice.
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Physicians who travel regularly for locum tenens engagements have the process of leaving home and returning again down to a science. One important factor to handling home affairs while away is knowing that everything is in order—although the definition of "in order" may vary, depending on the physician. If you are single and live in an apartment, arranging for someone to collect your mail may be all you need to do before beginning your engagement. If, on the other hand, you are leaving a spouse, children, a hundred-year-old house, and several pets behind, a bit more planning may be required. Here are a few ideas that should help you leave for your next opportunity with relative ease.
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