The second section of this novel begins with the patients still watching the blank television screen. All except McMurphy, however, are completely aware of Ratched's anger. Even the orderlies and aides watch Ratched to see how she will react to the insubordinate behavior. Chief remarks that "there's no more fog anyplace," indicating that he believes McMurphy's rebellious behavior has removed it.
Chief is led to the staff room, where Nurse Ratched will conduct a staff meeting. Chief tells the reader that cleaning the staff room is a frightening chore because the staff emits poisonous and acidic gases and fluids. At times, Chief says, the staff is able to make a patient materialize on the table, "vulnerable to any fiendish notion they took."
The staff room is tense, and Nurse Ratched reacts suspiciously to Chief's presence. In a humorously and satirically written discussion, the staff debates what they should do with the impertinent McMurphy. The staff, described by Chief as "boys," attempts to anticipate Ratched's wishes by recommending that he be sent to the Disturbed Ward. Ratched disagrees, telling the staff that McMurphy is her responsibility and that she isn't prepared to admit failure this soon. She declares that McMurphy resembles Charles Cheswick, a man she says backs down when challenged. She reminds the staff that the length of McMurphy's stay at the hospital is entirely dependent on the determination of the staff based upon his ability to conform.
