A nursing assistant has been late returning from lunch three times this week. What is the MOST appropriate and professional way for the manager to address this?

The question describes a situation where a nursing assistant has been consistently late returning from lunch. The manager needs to address this issue professionally and effectively.

Let's evaluate each option:

• a. Meet with the assistant and calmly say, "You have been late back from lunch for 3 days this week." This is the most appropriate and professional first step. It involves a direct, private conversation with the employee, stating the factual observation calmly. This approach allows the manager to understand the reason for the lateness and discuss expectations without being accusatory or confrontational.
• b. Send a message with a nurse going to lunch for the assistant to return to the unit immediately. This is an indirect approach that could be perceived as unprofessional and could embarrass the assistant. It doesn't allow for a proper discussion about the repeated issue.
• c. Go to the cafeteria and confront the assistant. Confronting an employee in a public place like a cafeteria is unprofessional and can lead to defensiveness and resentment. Performance issues should always be discussed in a private setting.
• d. Call the cafeteria and ask that they send the assistant back to the unit. This is also an indirect and unprofessional method. It involves a third party (cafeteria staff) in a personnel matter and does not facilitate direct communication or problem-solving with the assistant.
• e. Anticipate that the assistant will give an explanation for the lateness. While it is reasonable to anticipate an explanation, this is not an action the manager should take. The manager's role is to initiate the conversation and address the issue, not just passively wait for an explanation.

The best course of action for a manager is to address the issue directly and professionally in a private setting.

The correct option is A.
A. Meet with the assistant and calmly say, "You have been late back from lunch for 3 days this week."