Progressive discipline in nursing. Arbitrators' decisions

Area of Science:

• Healthcare Management
• Labor Relations
• Human Resources

Background:

• Nursing administrators frequently face arbitration regarding staff discipline or termination.
• Labor arbitrators review disciplinary actions for appropriateness, emphasizing progressive discipline.

Purpose of the Study:

• To describe the concept and elements of progressive discipline.
• To analyze arbitration cases involving hospital disciplinary measures.
• To provide guidelines for nursing administrators on progressive discipline.

Main Methods:

• Review of labor arbitration principles.
• Case study analysis of disciplinary actions in healthcare settings.
• Identification of elements constituting progressive discipline.

Main Results:

• Arbitrators evaluate disciplinary actions based on fairness and progressive steps.
• Failure to implement progressive discipline can lead to overturned decisions.
• Consistent application of progressive discipline strengthens the employer's case.

Conclusions:

• Progressive discipline is crucial for upholding disciplinary actions in arbitration.
• Guidelines are provided to assist nursing administrators in implementing and defending disciplinary measures.
• Effective use of progressive discipline can mitigate the need for arbitration.