When the nurse manager must help staff cope with change.

Abstract

The authors describe the dynamics of change, barriers and resistance to change, and provide techniques for assisting staff cope with change. The nurse manager should provide support during change, intervene when change is a surprise, help staff find challenge in change, encourage staff to have courage and stamina while coping with change, and foster teamwork. Using these techniques enables the manager and staff to view change as a challenge and an opportunity rather than a threat.