A charge nurse is observing a conflict between two nurses who both insist that the charge nurse favors the other when making assignments. Which of the following conflict-resolution strategies should the charge nurse use?

A. Arrange for the nurses to have as few shifts together as possible: Avoiding the conflict does not address the underlying issue and can create resentment or communication breakdown. Conflict resolution should focus on addressing the concern directly rather than separating staff. B. Encourage collaboration between the two nurses when making the assignments: Promoting collaboration allows both nurses to participate in decision-making, encourages shared responsibility, and helps develop mutual respect. Collaborative problem-solving is an effective strategy for resolving interpersonal conflicts in the workplace. C. Ask each nurse to take turns making the assignments: Alternating assignments may temporarily reduce tension, but it does not foster constructive communication or address the perception of favoritism. This may leave underlying issues unresolved. D. Tell the nurses that the assignments will be more equitable in the future: Simply reassuring staff without involving them in the solution may be perceived as dismissive and does not provide a strategy for addressing current conflict. Active involvement is needed to resolve the dispute effectively.