Media Release
March 30, 2006
New Conflict Resolution Program for Nurses

While nurses may not create any more conflict in the workplace than others, it is inevitable that when working with staff and clients, nurses must deal with conflicts. Ontario-based Silver Meridian has just announced a three day program on resolving conflicts in the workplace, specifically designed for nurse leaders in long term care. The first offering of the intensive, hands-on program is scheduled to begin on May 4, 2006 at the Silver Meridian Training Centre in Whitby. 

The realities of increasing work demands and challenges for employees in health care certainly contribute to the potential for an escalation in conflict situations. Nurse leaders are expected to maintain control of the work environment, and effectively deal with conflicts when they arise. In the face of these ever increasing demands, many nurse leaders are experiencing frustration and need guidance and support. 

It is from this scenario that The Conflict Resolution Program evolved at Silver Meridian. Recognizing the nature of the situation in long term care, the program focuses on more than theory and knowledge relative to dealing with conflicts. Participants experience conflict resolution from a hands-on perspective through exercises, role-plays, case studies and practicum experiences back in the workplace. While the program runs for three days, each day is separated by 3-4 weeks during which participants put into practice the concepts from the training days. 

According to Silver Meridian’s Darlene Legree, the fact that most nurses are women directly impacts the structure of the program. Legree commented, “Women tend to be excellent listeners and collaborators, which are skills that can help in conflict situations. However, since many women want harmony in the workplace, they also tend to avoid dealing with conflicts.” She goes on to point out that the program emphasizes self-reflection and group collaboration in a non-threatening manner, which are important components for women as learners.  

Following this inaugural offering of the Conflict Resolution Program, Silver Meridian will be presenting the program during their Summer Institute at the Silver Meridian Training Centre in Whitby, and in the Hamilton, Whitby and Ottawa areas in the Fall. 

The Conflict Resolution Program is the second offering from Silver Meridian in the Emerging Nurse Leader Program series. The initial program, “Preparing The Garden”, focuses on fundamental leadership skills, with over 500 nurses across Ontario having completed the program. 

For more information on the Conflict Resolution Program for nurse leaders, or any other programs from Silver Meridian, call 905-433-0040, or e-mail info@silver-meridian.com

- 30 -

Contact:
Kathy Ritchie
Silver Meridian
621 McEwen Dr., Suite 28
Whitby, ON.,  L1N 9A5 

Phone:   905-433-0040
Fax:       905-433-0051

Back to previous page