Hunting for sacred cows

"Sacred cows" are behavioral patterns that we continue to use even though they may no longer be effective. Their continued use tramples creativity, reduces innovative thought, limits the ability to respond quickly to change, and ultimately becomes costly to individuals and organizations. In less turbulent times, sacred cows were a source of irritation that managers worked around. There is no longer time available for managers to "work around" sacred cows. They must be rounded up and dealt with. It is only by confronting their own sacred cows that nurse managers will find the energy to maintain a caring environment for patients' families and staff.