Problem: How Would You Handle This Transfer Request? You are the manager of a surgical unit. Many novice nurses apply to your unit to perfect their basic skills before transferring to a specialty unit. Although this is somewhat frustrating to you, you recognize that you can do little about it. The hospital policy dictates that nurses requesting another position must fill out a "request for transfer" form when they apply for the new position. This form, which is completed by the nurses' current manager, contains information regarding when they can be released from their present position for the new position and a current appraisal of their work performance. Today, you fi nd another "request for transfer" form on your desk. However, when you read the name on the form, you feel a sense of relief rather than despair. The nurse requesting the transfer is one of your more difficult employees. Scott Powell is a very qualified nurse, but he is frequently absent from work, is very critical of the other nurses' work performance, and is generally unpleasant to be around. During the 2 years that he has worked on this unit, you have tried many different approaches in an effort to improve Scott's absenteeism and attitude. There would frequently be temporary improvements only. Scott has requested a transfer to the emergency department. His career goal is to be part of the flight rescue team. He certainly has the skills and intelligence to be part of this highly skilled group. However, you believe that if you include all the negative aspects of Scott's performance, he may not be selected for the position. On one hand, you believe this job could be a turning point for Scott. It might be what he needs to overcome some of his work problems. On the other hand, the relief that you feel at the possibility of transferring Scott off your unit indicates that there are some ethical issues present in this situation.

ASSIGNMENT: Decide what you should do about Scott's request to transfer to the emergency department. Outline your plan. Be specific about the alternatives open to you and what course of action you will take.