Summary
Some workplace behaviors are annoying but fixable. Others? Downright dangerous – and possibly unchangeable. In this Q&A episode, Dr. Renee Thompson tackles three real-world scenarios submitted by nurse leaders across the country:
- A charge nurse whose competence is overshadowed by recurring emotional outbursts.
- A team member who falsifies reports, raising red flags about character.
- A territorial nurse marking equipment as her own—and even throwing water at a coworker!
How do you know whether someone’s behavior can be coached… or whether it’s time to performance-manage them out? Renee breaks down the difference between skill gaps and character flaws, and gives leaders the language to hold their teams accountable with professionalism and compassion.
If you’re dealing with a disruptive team member, this episode will give you practical tools – and the permission – to protect your team and your culture.
Things You’ll Learn
- The 2-lens approach to evaluating disruptive behavior: capability vs. willingness
- How to respond when coaching isn’t enough
- Why asking, “Can they be trained – or is this a character flaw?” is crucial
- What to say to a territorial nurse hoarding supplies or claiming space
- The power of setting expectations through curiosity, not confrontation
- Why confronting even “untouchable” behavior still matters
Resources
- Connect with and follow Dr. Renee Thompson on LinkedIn.
- Learn more about the Healthy Workforce Institute on their LinkedIn and website.
- Download your copy of our 33 Scripts to Address Disruptive Behavior When You Don’t Know What to Say
- Check out Renee Thompson’s book Enough! Eradicating Bullying & Incivility: Strategies for Front Line Leaders here!
- Check out Renee Thompson’s book Do No Harm Applies to Nurses Too! Strategies to Protect and Bully-proof Yourself at Work here!
- Learn more about the Eradicating Bullying & Incivility eLearning Program here!
Have a question for Renee?
Email us at [email protected] to have your leadership question featured in an upcoming Q&A episode!
Disclosure: The host may be compensated for linking to other sites or for sales of products we link to. As an Amazon Associate, Coffee Break earns from qualifying purchases.
