If a charge nurse notes an increase in sick calls and staff conflict after multiple trauma incidents, what action should the nurse take?

When a charge nurse observes an increase in sick calls and staff conflict following multiple trauma incidents, arranging for critical incident stress debriefing is a significant and appropriate action. This type of debriefing provides a structured way for healthcare staff to process their experiences, emotions, and the stressors associated with traumatic events they may have encountered during their shifts.

Critical incident stress debriefing can help to normalize feelings of stress and anxiety that staff may be experiencing after dealing with traumatic situations. It allows for open discussion of the incidents, fostering support among team members and promoting resilience. This proactive approach can mitigate the longer-term psychological impact of these incidents, reducing burnout and turnover rates while encouraging a supportive work environment.

In contrast, the other options do not adequately address the root cause of the staff's distress. A pizza party might create a temporary positive atmosphere but would not address the underlying issues of emotional strain. Reminding staff about the sick-leave policy may seem appropriate but does not engage with the emotional and psychological toll that trauma can have on the team. Speaking individually with staff members may help to some extent, but without a structured approach to collectively address the trauma experienced, it might not have the same comprehensive benefits as a debriefing session.