The Mandate Debate
Written by Chris Blomquist, AHI Corporate RN Consultant
The recent debates surrounding the mandate have raised tensions for both our residents and staff recently and have exacerbated our workforce struggles in some instances. This has left many facility leaders wondering how to balance the operational needs such as staffing with the mandates coming from state and federal agencies. Even though it can sometimes feel that the situation is out of our control, there are a few things that we can do to ease the fears of our friends, staff, and coworkers.
Remind staff that the mandate is not in effect yet and that the details are not known. There is still a possibility that there will be options for ongoing testing in lieu of vaccination or that exceptions will be allowed in certain circumstances. Encourage your staff to put off making employment decisions until the full details are known.
Keep your personal feelings out of the picture when discussing the mandate with staff and coworkers. As a leader we need to always do what is best for our residents and the facility; Keep the discussion fact-based and focus on the regulations and rules.
Understand that because of how polarized the debate has become in many areas you will face an uphill battle to change minds. Don’t try to “convert” others, instead, listen to their thoughts, fears, and worries in a non-judgmental way. A trusted friend or confidant holds much more sway than a preachy manager.
Connect with local community leaders, influencers, and clergy who publicly resist vaccination efforts and host a round table discussion on the implications. Even if they oppose the mandate, there is the potential for them to be a part of the solution in some form. Loss of funding is often the chief means of enforcement for government mandates; For many of these people, the thought of losing the ability to provide eldercare or the loss of jobs in the community may be just what you need to bring them to the table.
Identify an informal leader in your building. Nearly every worksite has a person outside of the management team whom everyone respects, trusts and goes to with concerns; bring this person “to the table” and including them in relevant discussions where possible. Having a staff vaccination champion can go a long way towards building support during difficult times.
Write your congressman or legislator and tell them what you are up against. Many voices make a choir that cannot be ignored.
Remember that this too shall pass. None of us joined this field for riches or fame. We are all here because we want to make a difference in the lives of those who are most vulnerable. Take time to reflect on the trials and triumphs of past years. Discuss these wins with those who may be on the verge of leaving the industry altogether. Sometimes a little perspective is all we need to get through the day.
I wish that I could offer you a magic bullet to solve all the challenges facing our industry. Please remember that what we all do matters to the thousands of elders across the country. Your tireless effort allows them a measure of comfort and dignity when they are at their most vulnerable.