Conflict resolution in a safe, non-threatening way is always the best choice anywhere, but especially the workplace.  I recommend the Thomas-Kilmann method of conflict resolution to new preceptors in my facility.  They have great information on their website at http://www.kilmanndiagnostics.com/overview-thomas-kilmann-conflict-mode-instrument-tki  Mind Tools also uses this method and other methods in their online education series on conflict resolution at http://www.mindtools.com/pages/article/newLDR_81.htm  Hopefully one would never have to deal with conflict, but as we all don't live in Barney's world (http://www.hitentertainment.com/barney/flash_mx/sites/player.asp),  conflict will arise no matter what you do or say. So knowing how to deal with conflict without alienating all of your co-workers is a top priority in my book.

     So I taught a new preceptor class today.  Actually, it was more like facilitating the class.  My facility requires the preceptor candidate to fill out an application and get three peer assessments.  The manager approves the preceptor candidate and then I assign them online modules about learning styles, communication, cultural influences,  and conflict resolution.  I had a good showing of 11 "students".  We had good discussions on preceptors and I told them my horror story of being a nursing student in the labor and delivery unit from the underworld.  I swore off labor and delivery as an option for my career after that encounter. I also talked about the nurses I see roll their eyes when they are told they have a nursing student or new employee.  I witnessed one nurse say something not nice when told she was to be a preceptor.  Unfortunately the new employee was sitting right across from her.  I was embarrassed and horrified that the nurse did this.  I volunteered to take the new employee.
      One thing that came up in the class today was how to deal with a know-it-all.  Does anyone have thoughts on this?
     There are some great resources for the nurse educator.  One I find helpful is the Association for Nursing Professional Development (ANPD) website www.anpd.org.  ANPD does charge membership fees, but they are well worth the cost if you want great information.  Their journal has great articles on many subjects.

Now what do I do?

I've been working a couple of weeks, but still not sure of what I need to do.  I have done a needs assessment of my different nursing units, but now wonder how do I get these great ideas for learning realized.  Also, just found out that I will be the administrator for the learning management system (LMS) at my facility.  This is a big job with a lot of responsibility. I have to make sure that staff keeps up to date on all online learning, plus develop classes for others that can be put on the LMS. Finally, I am in charge of the preceptor program.  I have to teach the New Preceptor class and make sure all of the preceptors are doing the required learning updates every two years.
So I guess I know what I need to do now.

New job!

     After 25 years of bedside nursing I am finally going a totally different route and becoming a Clinical Educator.  I have never worked a Monday through Friday job with weekends off.  Plus, I get my own office!  I am so excited, but scared.  What am I going to do?  Will I get along with everyone in the office?