Sources of conflict between physicians and nurses

In the hospital setting، the potential for conflict is considerably high، because of the frequent and complicated interactions among nurses، physicians and other medical team staff and also the variety of their roles. With regards to the destructive conflict between physician and nurse which can negatively impact on the quality of health care delivery، this study aimed to investigate sources of conflict between physicians and nurses. The study population involved a total of physicians and nursing cadre employed in 4 hospitals affiliated to Ardebil University of Medical Sciences. 260 subjects were selected by both census and Simple random sampling methods. Data collection process was accomplished through questionnaire that its reliability and validity were confirmed. Data analysis was done using the Descriptive statistics and Mann-Whitney، Kruskal-Wallis tests. Inequality in the social status between physicians and nurses from the perspective of patients and their attendants and also inequality in distribution of immaterial benefits between two forementioned groups (mean=3. 23) were the most leading factors in arising conflict. The Social economic system (p<0. 001)، the health system (p=0. 013)، the hospital system (p<0. 001) and interpersonal relations (p<0. 001) variables had a significant relationship with the organizational position. creating appropriate social and cultural contexts in order to promote the social status of nursing profession as well as improving the organization and its management could be effective to prevent or at least mitigate conflict between physicians and nurses.