Abstract
Appreciating that conflict situations require consideration of both the individual in the conflict and the system from which the conflict arises, it is detrimental to believe that conflict can be completely understood without also examining the values, styles, and preferences of the individuals and systems involved. Since conflict itself is rooted in multiple sources, constructive engagement in conflict requires interactive communication between individuals. Techniques in good communication allow for the identification and verbalization of each party’s needs and interests to reach resolution. However, as humans, we are imperfect communicators. Communicating under stressful conditions becomes even more challenging. In heightened conflict situations, even with the best of intentions and the most practiced use of good communication techniques, constructive conversations and productive outcomes are not always realized. In the healthcare setting, the stakes are even more costly as patient care and outcomes may be negatively impacted through demonstrated patterns of conflict-avoidance. The purpose of this scholarly project is to improve self-confidence in newly licensed registered nurses through the implementation of a formalized educational program in conflict management. It is hoped that by introducing conflict engagement techniques, and fostering proficiency in conflict engagement strategies, individuals will be able to improve the quality of health care by transferring their skills and knowledge to others. In addition, by facilitating effective communication among various members of the heath care team, interdisciplinary collaboration will be enhanced. These efforts will contribute to overall increased workforce engagement, with the ultimate goal of improving employee and patient satisfaction.|Keywords: conflict, conflict engagement training, self-confidence, interprofessional collaboration, teamwork