What action would best address the latent conflict between Carol and Fred?

Addressing latent conflict often requires open communication and collaboration among all parties involved. In this scenario, discussing current challenges with staffing levels with the nurses presents an opportunity to foster dialogue and gain insights from both Carol and Fred. This approach encourages transparency, allowing the individuals to express their concerns, frustrations, and suggestions. By collaboratively working through the staffing issues, both Carol and Fred can understand each other's perspectives, which may help them to resolve underlying tensions and enhance their working relationship.

Engaging in a group discussion about staffing levels can also help identify common goals and alleviate individual grievances, thus preventing conflicts from escalating further. This method promotes teamwork and can lead to a more cohesive working environment where solutions are collectively developed rather than imposed individually.