What is the best action for the charge nurse to take regarding a practical nurse reluctant to use new equipment?

The best action for the charge nurse to take is to observe the practical nurse while he uses the equipment. This approach fosters a supportive learning environment and allows for real-time feedback. By observing, the charge nurse can identify specific areas of difficulty and provide tailored guidance, which can help alleviate the practical nurse's reluctance. Additionally, this method shows respect for the nurse's concerns and promotes confidence in using the new equipment.

Observation can also serve as an opportunity for hands-on training, where the charge nurse can demonstrate the correct usage, clarify any misconceptions, and provide immediate assistance if the practical nurse faces challenges. This collaborative approach not only enhances skills but can also help build trust and communication within the team, ultimately leading to better patient care.

In contrast, simply instructing the practical nurse to accept the new equipment does not address the root of the reluctance, nor does it help to build proficiency. Providing additional training sessions is beneficial but may not be as effective without first assessing the practical nurse's current understanding and skill level through observation. Reassigning the practical nurse to a different task may limit his professional development and does not resolve his apprehension about using the new equipment. Observing the nurse directly is a more constructive and informative strategy.