Which of the following best describes the behavior of nursing staff who are 'laggards' during change implementation?

The behavior of nursing staff identified as 'laggards' during change implementation is characterized by a gradual acceptance of new protocols and practices. These individuals typically take longer to adapt to changes compared to their peers. Laggards may be hesitant or resistant, often waiting until they see clear evidence of the benefits or success of the new initiatives before committing to them. This tendency to delay adopting new practices stems from a natural skepticism towards change; they prefer to maintain established routines until there is overwhelming reason to shift.

This characteristic helps in understanding the different stages and reactions to change across a team. Those who enthusiastically embrace new practices often drive the momentum needed for successful implementation, while laggards play an important role in highlighting potential challenges and validating the effectiveness of changes over time. Their eventual adoption is crucial as they can influence other team members who may have reservations or lack confidence in the new direction.