Is the Conflict Between Nurses and Doctors Real?
Examine the rivalry that sometimes exists between nurses and doctors and its implications for both workplace dynamics and the realm of healthcare. Uncover strategies for effectively managing this conflict, particularly for new nurses.
Effective collaboration and teamwork between nurses and doctors are crucial for ensuring positive outcomes for patients.
It is a common observation that both doctors and nurses frequently witness behaviors that arise from what is often termed the “nurse-doctor rivalry.” Navigating the potential conflict between nurses and doctors in the workplace can be accomplished through the principles of mutual respect and efficient communication.
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Nursing’s role within the healthcare domain has evolved significantly beyond the mere adherence to “doctor’s orders.” Today, nurses possess extensive education and play an integral role alongside doctors in making pivotal decisions for patients. While this progression is commendable, it has also given rise to conflicts within workplaces that can impact various facets, including job contentment, communication, teamwork, and the effectiveness of care.
Understanding the Importance of Nursing Continuing Education
Within this article, we embark on an exploration of the nurse-doctor relationship and its reverberations on workplace dynamics and the quality of care provided. Conversations with medical professionals, both doctors and nurses, shed light on their personal experiences with any potential rivalry. Drawing from their insights, we delve into the topic and offer guidance on strategies to alleviate or altogether circumvent this conflict. Unveiling the Interplay Between Nurses and Doctors
To gain a comprehensive understanding of the dynamics between these two professions, it is essential to journey back about 170 years to the genesis of modern nursing.
In the 1850s, Florence Nightingale laid the groundwork for nursing schools in England. This period was characterized by women primarily assuming nursing roles, a perception that persists to this day. The prevailing sentiment during that era positioned female nurses as assistants to male doctors.
Even through the 1950s and 1960s, the nursing role was seen as subservient to that of physicians. Nicholas McGowan, a critical care nurse overseeing the Critical Care Academy, reflects on this by stating, “The nursing role was positioned beneath that of the physician, who often assumed a paternal relationship where nurses were expected to yield their place when a physician entered the unit.”
However, the landscape has transformed considerably. McGowan adds, “The contemporary scenario is markedly different. Nurses are now part of a well-established profession, educated and regarded as ‘colleagues’ and ‘team members.’ They are equipped to critically evaluate and question the directives of physicians.”
Nevertheless, divisions persist, particularly between physicians and advanced practice nurses (APNs). The Strain Between Nurses and Doctors
Regrettably, even with the evolution of the nurse-doctor relationship since the 19th century, tensions continue to surface within workplaces. Effective collaborative relationships between nurses and doctors are pivotal for cultivating a harmonious work environment. A study in the Journal of Family Medicine and Primary Care in 2019 delved into doctors’ and nurses’ attitudes toward collaborative relationships at work.
The study revealed nurses to be more inclined toward collaboration and teamwork compared to doctors. Disparities emerged regarding views on physician dominance, joint nurse-doctor training, and the ongoing “caring vs. curing” debate. These variations, among others, can give rise to power dynamics and rivalries that influence job satisfaction.
Concerning advanced practice nurses (APNs), a prevalent notion within the healthcare realm is that nurse practitioners (NPs) do not provide care at the same level as physicians.
“As the educational attainment, salary, and professional practice of nurses advance, the potential for conflicts and rivalries with physicians tends to increase,” notes McGowan.
However, it is important to note that not all doctors and nurses encounter this rivalry within their healthcare settings.
Cynthia Thurlow, NP and CEO/founder of the Everyday Wellness Project, reflects on her 20+ year career: “This dynamic was absent. Most MDs, nurses, and APNs worked collaboratively, united by a common mission of serving others.”
Impact on the Work Environment
Research underscores that effective collaboration between nurses and doctors directly impacts healthcare performance and efficiency. In contrast, rivalry can give rise to communication barriers, which in turn influence team dynamics and overall job satisfaction.
“The adverse outcomes of the nurse-doctor rivalry extend to fostering a toxic environment that may diminish your enthusiasm for work,” reflects Dr. Daniel Paull, an orthopedic doctor in Colorado. He adds, “Additionally, patients can become unwittingly caught in this crossfire, potentially compromising their care due to ego-driven clashes.”
Healthcare institutions can proactively address such conflicts by implementing stringent policies against workplace discord and swiftly addressing negative interactions. Paull emphasizes a “zero-tolerance policy” and recognizes hospitals as environments that can breed toxic behaviors.
McGowan underscores the importance of actively promoting communication and collaboration across all tiers of healthcare staff.
“Establishing a conducive work environment and fostering systems that promote genuine collaboration among interdisciplinary team members is paramount within healthcare settings,” McGowan asserts.
Guidance for Novice Nurses Navigating the Nurse-Doctor Relationship
Advice from both nurses and doctors resonates for newly graduated nurses: Forge open lines of communication with doctors and comfortably seek answers to questions. Establishing a respectful and friendly rapport from the outset lays the groundwork for nurturing such professional relationships throughout one’s career.
“Seek opportunities for learning,” Thurlow advises. “Even as a new ER RN, I fostered positive relationships with MDs by inquiring, promoting collegiality, and augmenting my knowledge.”
Above all, remember that both nurses and doctors share the same overarching objectives.
“Most doctors are driven to collaborate with you in delivering optimal care for patients,” Paull emphasizes. He further reinforces the idea that nurses and doctors are aligned in their goals. He acknowledges the minority of doctors who exhibit disagreeable behavior, asserting that they represent an exception. Paull concludes, “If you find yourself in an environment where negativity prevails, seek a workplace that prioritizes mutual respect.”
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