THE CASE STUDY
Associate what you have learned about the theories to this case studycomplete interactive case studies and be asked to associate what you have learned about theory in comparison to the case study and reflect on it.
Each time you have completed a case study, click on "Create Journal Entry" above to post your reflection. Each reflection should include the following:
A comparison of what you have learned from the case study to related theories you have studied. Make sure to cite these theories in APA format.
A comparison of the case study to your nursing practice, giving one or two examples from your nursing experience in which you might have applied a particular theory covered.
Your reflection should be a minimum of five to six paragraphs.W4 - Sociologic Sciences Interactive Case Study
Role Theory: Role Behavior
As a new graduate and new nurse, Natalie needs to negotiate appropriate role behaviors with patients, coworkers, and medical staff (p. 286). Role strain or stress, including role incongruity (p. 287), can occur when the individual's expectations (her view of the caring role of the nurse) conflicts with the requirements to learn to manage complicated equipment and medications.
W4 - Sociologic Sciences Interactive Case Study
Conflict Theory
As noted in the text, conflict is often grounded in issues of power/authority and domination/subjugation (p. 289). The two nurse colleagues are struggling to hold on to their position of power related to their experience because they are probably threatened by Natalie's advanced degree.
W4 - Sociologic Sciences Interactive Case Study
Social Exchange Theory (individualistic social exchange, p. 280)
Natalie has noted that reciprocity is lacking in her relationships with the two experienced ADN nurses. As a result, she feels like resigning (withdrawing from the situation).
W4 - Sociologic Sciences Interactive Case Study
Natalie discusses this issue with one of her professors. Her professor offers the following recommendations:
• Don't do anything at this point. This is normal behavior for other nurses dealing with a novice. Time will prove your readiness.
• Review the conflict and try to think of the other experienced nurses' perspective. Again, time will prove your readiness.
• Speak up now and remind the other nurses that you are a brand new RN and will have a leaming period.
Reflect on which option you think would be best for you. Then click on the Review button below to see why Natalie's professor offered the options she did.
W4 - Sociologic Sciences Interactive Case Study
Natalie recognizes the issues of role behavior and role incongruity (p. 287) and seeks out one of her professors to discuss these. The professor reminds her that this is a normal process and that she needs to give herself some time to leam her position (the professor might refer her to Benner's Novice to Expert, discussed in a later chapter). She tells her that as she becomes more comfortable with the technical requirements of her position, she will find she is able to again putthe caring aspect of nursing in the forefront.
As Natalie reviewed her information on conflict (p. 289) and individualistic social exchange framework (p. 280), as well as recognizing that the other nurses were struggling to maintain their own power (and self-concept), she was able to change her approach. She praised the other nurses for their knowledge and experience. She remained humble and quiet as she gained more experience and knowledge. She quietly reminded them that, despite her degree, she was still a new RN and so she appreciated having knowledgeable nurses like them around. She hoped that this would make them feel less threatened.