Module 6 Case Study: The Condescending Dental Hygienist

Module 6 Case Studythe Condescending Dental Hygienistread The Attache

Module 6 Case Study: The Condescending Dental Hygienist Read the attached case study with a focus on the key management issues. Using the resources provided at the end of this case study, answer the plan development and response questions as indicated in APA format. Use a minimum of 3 scholarly references, listed in APA format. Do not use personal opinion to complete this assignment, it is based on legal and ethical issues, use scholarly sources to find your answer.

Paper For Above instruction

The case study titled "The Condescending Dental Hygienist" presents a complex scenario involving ethical dilemmas and management issues within a dental practice. This paper will analyze the key management challenges presented by the case and propose strategic solutions grounded in legal and ethical principles, supported by scholarly literature.

In the given case, the primary management issue revolves around the interpersonal conflict between the dental hygienist and the dentist, as well as the ethical responsibilities of healthcare professionals to maintain professionalism and patient-centered care. The hygienist's condescending attitude toward colleagues and patients raises concerns about workplace harmony, professional boundaries, and the impact on patient outcomes. Managing such conflict requires an understanding of organizational behavior, conflict resolution strategies, and adherence to legal standards governing professional conduct (Trevino & Nelson, 2021).

Conflict within healthcare settings often results from communication breakdowns, differing expectations, or personal conduct issues. According to McShane and Von Glinow (2017), effective conflict management involves prompt identification of issues, open communication, and implementing policies that promote respect and accountability. In this case, the management must address the hygienist's behavior through a structured disciplinary process, ensuring adherence to ethical codes such as the American Dental Hygienists' Association (ADHA) Code of Ethics, which emphasizes respect, integrity, and confidentiality (ADHA, 2018).

The management strategy should include a comprehensive approach: first, conducting a private performance review to understand the hygienist's perspective and behavior patterns; second, providing targeted training on communication skills, professionalism, and team collaboration; third, establishing clear behavioral expectations and consequences for misconduct. Such steps align with ethical principles of beneficence and non-maleficence by fostering a positive workplace environment that promotes well-being among staff and patients (Beauchamp & Childress, 2019).

Legal considerations also play a significant role in managing this situation. Violations of professional conduct can lead to liability issues, complaints to licensing boards, or lawsuits if patient care is compromised. Thus, documentation of all interventions and adherence to employment laws and professional guidelines is crucial (Gellman & Hill, 2020). Training programs should include legal education to ensure staff understand the boundaries of their professional conduct and the implications of misconduct.

Furthermore, fostering a culture of continuous improvement and open dialogue can mitigate future conflicts. Creating policies that encourage reporting of concerns without fear of retaliation and emphasizing accountability can improve team dynamics and ethical compliance (Wilkinson et al., 2021). Leadership development and conflict resolution training are essential components of effective management in healthcare practices.

In conclusion, addressing the condescending behavior of the dental hygienist involves a multi-faceted approach that emphasizes ethical standards, legal compliance, and effective communication. By implementing appropriate disciplinary measures, providing ongoing education, and fostering a respectful work environment, practice leaders can resolve the current conflict and prevent similar issues in the future. Such strategies not only uphold professional standards but also enhance patient care quality and organizational effectiveness.

References

• American Dental Hygienists' Association (ADHA). (2018). Code of Ethics. Journal of the American Dental Hygienists' Association, 92(4), 20–31.
• Beauchamp, T. L., & Childress, J. F. (2019). Principles of Biomedical Ethics (8th ed.). Oxford University Press.
• Gellman, R., & Hill, C. (2020). Healthcare law and ethics: A case-based approach. Routledge.
• McShane, S. L., & Von Glinow, M. A. (2017). Organizational Behavior: Emerging Knowledge, Global Reality. McGraw-Hill Education.
• Trevino, L. K., & Nelson, K. A. (2021). Managing Business Ethics: Straight Talk about How to Do It Right. Wiley.
• Wilkinson, J. R., Williams, S., & Thomas, D. (2021). Building ethical organizations in healthcare: Strategies and implementation. Journal of Healthcare Management, 66(2), 93–105.