Conflict in the operating room: fight and flight or growth and communication.

Abstract

Conflict is partial to no one. It ranges from within an individual and spirals in a ripple effect to others. Conflict among Registered Nurses (RNs) and Operating Room Technicians (ORTs) and between fellow RNs is prevalent in the operation room. The OR environment is filled with a number of personalities, each possessing varying methods for the implementation of patient care. Effective communication is key to preventing, and resolving, conflict situations.