Abstract
We conducted voluntary meetings with head nurses and supervisors at the University of Michigan Hospitals to encourage expression of feelings about the 1981 nurses' strike, and to gain an objective understanding of the decision- making struggles involved. We presented techniques and practice opportunities for supervisors to promote resolution of interpersonal rifts and resumption of teamwork (such as sharing feelings about the strike and concerns about leadership roles); demonstrated leading an objective diagnostic listing of reasons for "going out" or "staying in," brainstorm sessions, and the "proactive image procedure"; and discussed sources of support. We explored head nurses' readiness to conduct such activities with their staff, and conducted follow-up sessions. Finally, we presented summary documentation and recommendations for improving morale and productivity to management.
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