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Ageneration defines an identifiable group that shares age, years, location, and special life events at critical developmental stages. Generational markers are events that impact all members of a generation in one way or another (Huber, 2010). Each generation is full of recognizable traits that can be emulated. The importance of embracing the multigenerational nursing team is discussed, including the importance of appreciating the differences and expertise of every nurse.
Generational Diversity
Generational diversity creates a health organization that incorporates the entire team from the clinical nurse to the executive level. This diversity impacts the workplace to create a rich and complete nursing team (Hahn, 2011). Comprehending generational differences creates an opportunity for strength, and stifles conflict and stress. Respect and communication are the underlying strategies to bridging and understanding the generational gap in the nursing team. Despite various efforts to embrace the team, several challenges remain in the generational groups that can result in misunderstanding related to communication styles, work ethics, and values (Stanley, 2010). Comprehending the perspective of the four generations is an essential criterion for today's nurse leaders (Outten, 2012). Outten noted optimal patient outcomes can be achieved when leaders increase their appreciation and awareness of multigenerational differences. She also suggested appreciating and valuing each generation for its strengths and generational diversity will develop synergy and improve performance.
The present nursing team is a combination of the Traditionals, the Baby Boomers, the Generation Xs, and the Millennials. The Traditionalists are individuals born between 1925-1945. The Baby Boomers were born between 1946 and 1964 (Jobe, 2014). The Generation Xs were born between 1965 and 1976, while the Millennials were born between 1977 and 2000 (Hendricks & Cope, 2013). However, nurses should not stereotype individuals and should realize each person has his or her personality. Individual life experiences and characteristics also combine to create a unique being.
Background and Description
Traditional Nurses (1925-1945)
Practicing Traditional nurses are on the verge of retirement. Their numbers are diminishing, but many are still in the workforce. These most senior nurses identified as the Veteran generation. These nurses have lived through terrible wars and economic hardships, such as the Great Depression and World War II (Barry, 2014). Most of them obtained information through movie theaters, radio, and newspapers. Most...