In a team meeting, which action demonstrates effective teamwork?

• A. Listen actively and consider colleagues' ideas
• B. Dominate conversation
• C. Interrupt others
• D. Dismiss concerns

Answer: (A)

Effective teamwork relies on open, respectful communication and collaborative problem-solving. Listening actively and considering colleagues' ideas embodies that approach. Active listening means giving your full attention, acknowledging what is said, asking clarifying questions, and summarizing to ensure understanding. When you do this in a team meeting, you create a space where all members feel heard, which helps surface important information about patient needs, potential risks, and different viewpoints. That shared input leads to decisions that reflect the whole team and supports safer, higher-quality care.

Dominating the conversation, interrupting others, or dismissing concerns shuts down input and erodes trust, making it harder to coordinate effectively and increasing the risk of oversights in patient care.