essay on nursing leadership and management

The essentials of nursing leadership: A systematic review of factors and educational interventions influencing nursing leadership

Affiliations.

• 1 Faculty of Nursing, Edmonton Clinic Health Academy, University of Alberta, 11405 87 Ave NW, Edmonton, AB T6G 1C9, Canada. Electronic address: [email protected].
• 2 Department of Nutrition, Dietetics and Food, School of Clinical Sciences at Monash Health, Monash University, Level 1, 264 Ferntree Gully Rd, Notting Hill, VIC 3168, Australia.
• 3 Faculty of Nursing, Edmonton Clinic Health Academy, University of Alberta, 11405 87 Ave NW, Edmonton, AB T6G 1C9, Canada.
• 4 Faculty of Nursing, Edmonton Clinic Health Academy, University of Alberta, 11405 87 Ave NW, Edmonton, AB T6G 1C9, Canada; Technical High School of Campinas, State University of Campinas (UNICAMP), Barão Geraldo, Campinas - São Paulo 13083-970, Brazil.
• PMID: 33383271
• DOI: 10.1016/j.ijnurstu.2020.103842

Background: Nursing leadership plays a vital role in shaping outcomes for healthcare organizations, personnel and patients. With much of the leadership workforce set to retire in the near future, identifying factors that positively contribute to the development of leadership in nurses is of utmost importance.

Objectives: To identify determining factors of nursing leadership, and the effectiveness of interventions to enhance leadership in nurses.

Design: We conducted a systematic review, including a total of nine electronic databases.

Data sources: Databases included: Medline, Academic Search Premier, Embase, PsychInfo, Sociological Abstracts, ABI, CINAHL, ERIC, and Cochrane.

Review methods: Studies were included if they quantitatively examined factors contributing to nursing leadership or educational interventions implemented with the intention of developing leadership practices in nurses. Two research team members independently reviewed each article to determine inclusion. All included studies underwent quality assessment, data extraction and content analysis.

Results: 49,502 titles/abstracts were screened resulting in 100 included manuscripts reporting on 93 studies (n=44 correlational studies and n=49 intervention studies). One hundred and five factors examined in correlational studies were categorized into 5 groups experience and education, individuals' traits and characteristics, relationship with work, role in the practice setting, and organizational context. Correlational studies revealed mixed results with some studies finding positive correlations and other non-significant relationships with leadership. Participation in leadership interventions had a positive impact on the development of a variety of leadership styles in 44 of 49 intervention studies, with relational leadership styles being the most common target of interventions.

Conclusions: The findings of this review make it clear that targeted educational interventions are an effective method of leadership development in nurses. However, due to equivocal results reported in many included studies and heterogeneity of leadership measurement tools, few conclusions can be drawn regarding which specific nurse characteristics and organizational factors most effectively contribute to the development of nursing leadership. Contextual and confounding factors that may mediate the relationships between nursing characteristics, development of leadership and enhancement of leadership development programs also require further examination. Targeted development of nursing leadership will help ensure that nurses of the future are well equipped to tackle the challenges of a burdened health-care system.

Keywords: Interventions; Leadership; Nursing workforce; Systematic Review.

Copyright © 2020. Published by Elsevier Ltd.

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Evidence and practice    

Developing effective nurse leadership skills, denise major deputy director of nursing, salisbury nhs foundation trust, salisbury, wiltshire, england.

• To enable you to outline the various types and characteristics of leadership

• To understand the importance of effective nurse leadership and its effect on patient care

• To identify ways to enhance your leadership skills and apply these in your everyday practice

Leadership is a role that nurses are expected to fulfil, regardless of their job title and experience. Nurses are required to lead and manage care as soon as they have completed their training. However, the development of leadership skills and the associated learning can be challenging, especially for less experienced nurses and those at the beginning of their careers. This article examines the importance of effective leadership for nurses, patients and healthcare organisations, and outlines some of the theories of leadership such as transformational leadership. It also details how nurses can develop their leadership skills, for example through self-awareness, critical reflection and role modelling.

Nursing Standard . doi: 10.7748/ns.2019.e11247

Major D (2019) Developing effective nurse leadership skills. Nursing Standard. doi: 10.7748/ns.2019.e11247

This article has been subject to external double-blind peer review and checked for plagiarism using automated software

@denisemajor4

[email protected]

None declared

Published online: 07 May 2019

clinical leadership - leadership development - leadership frameworks - leadership models - leadership skills - transformational leadership

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The Evolving Role of Nurse Leadership in the Fight for Health Equity

Devastating disparities in COVID-19 infection and outcomes among socioeconomically marginalized groups have resulted in a public outcry to address longstanding societal inequities that have contributed to the present situation. Nurse leaders have an opportunity and an obligation in this moment to lend their skills as scientists, innovators, advocates, and educators to lead in these efforts, advancing health equity for all.

• • Nurse leaders play a crucial role in the nation’s goal of achieving health equity for all.
• • Nurse leaders are scientists, innovators, advocates, and educators, and often serve in multiple roles.
• • Nurse leaders can take concrete actions to promote health equity regardless of their practice setting.

The year 2020 began with a celebration of nursing, coinciding with the bicentennial of Florence Nightingale’s birth, and was declared the International Year of the Nurse and the Midwife by the World Health Organization (WHO). 1 It ended with the most destructive and life-altering global pandemic in modern history. The Sars-CoV-2 virus has claimed over 600,000 lives 2 in the United States alone and infected over 33 million worldwide. Devastating disparities in COVID-19 infection and outcomes among socioeconomically marginalized groups 2 , 3 have resulted in a public outcry to address longstanding societal inequities that have contributed to the present situation.

Against this backdrop, it seems fitting that the National Academies of Science, Engineering, and Medicine (NAM) and Robert Wood Johnson Foundation recently released their joint report “The Future of Nursing 2020–2030: Charting a Path to Achieve Health Equity,” 4 , 5 articulating the crucial role nurses are called to play in the advancement of health equity for all. Health equity has been defined as “the absence of systematic disparities in health (or in the major social determinants of health) between social groups who have different levels of underlying social advantage/disadvantage.” 4 It means that everyone has a fair and just opportunity to be as healthy as possible, which requires the removal of obstacles to health such as poverty, discrimination, and their consequences. 6 While timely, this reinvigoration and call for action is not new. More than a decade ago, the WHO called for health equity for all with emphasis on the need to address the social determinants of health (SDOH). 7 , 8

As the nation undergoes a renewed commitment to ensuring health equity and combating the societal inequities, such as systemic racism, that give rise to health disparities, nurses are called to help lead the charge. As the largest health care profession in the United States, with approximately 4 million registered nurses, 9 nurses have much to offer as leaders in the fight for health equity and nurse leaders must have a seat at the decision-making table. Throughout the pandemic nurses have played a central role on the front lines—at the bedside, as scientists, advocates and as health care leaders. Yet, despite the crucial roles filled by nurses and their contributions to seeing our nation through this unprecedented disaster, the voices of nurse leaders were often absent at the highest levels of strategic public health and national response. 10 The late addition of nurse Jane Hopkins, a nurse with over 20 years of experience at both the beside and in health equity, to the White House Coronavirus Task Force in November 2020 11 underscores the need for nurse leaders to make their presence known 12 and also recognition of the unique perspectives and expertise nurses have to offer in public health crises and beyond.

Equity is a central tenet of nursing practice. 13 , 14 If nursing is to realize the lofty goals set before it by the NAM, to chart a path to health equity for our patients, communities, and the nation; we must identify ways to amplify the voices of nurse leaders moving forward, reflecting on missed opportunities of the recent past. To do this, we must recognize and leverage the various roles nurse leaders currently play in advancing health equity as scientists, innovators, advocates, and educators.

Nurse Leaders are Scientists

Nurses have been generating new knowledge through research for decades, independently leading clinical and public health research studies, and also working in partnership with scientists in other fields, such as pharmacy, nutrition, medicine, and engineering. 15 , 16 Nursing research has a long history of advancing theoretical perspectives and research regarding health disparities. 17 , 18 , 19 , 20 , 21 In May 2021, the National Advisory Council for Nursing Research issued recommendations for potential future National Institute of Nursing Research (NINR) focus areas that include dismantling structures that perpetuate racism and impede health equity, and using nursing science’s multilevel perspective to develop and implement interventions to address SDOH across the lifespan. 22 , 23 Over 75% of studies funded through the NINR involve clinical research, and 32% of NINR’s funding supports research focused on eliminating health disparities. 24

With advances in health information technologies, nurse scientists are increasingly generating and using large and complex datasets for health services research. In recent years, the National Institutes of Health, including the NINR, have placed increasing emphasis on enhancing and integrating the data sciences into the health research enterprise. 25 This is especially relevant and timely given the dire need to consider the impact of social determinants on health equity. The socioeconomic consequences of the pandemic are severe and will have long-lasting effects, even as the pandemic abates. 26 These include a widening of existing disparities as a result of lack of mental health access, barriers to telehealth, greater barriers to health care overall, and income disparities. Nurse scientists are well positioned to leverage analytic skills independently and as members of multidisciplinary research teams to ask important questions to identify the causal mechanisms that perpetuate inequities with a lens and perspective that is unique to nursing.

To do this, they will need SDOH data. In 2014, the NAM (formerly Institute of Medicine) recommended SDOH information be collected within electronic health records (EHR). 27 In addition to analyses, nurse scientists can help to ensure the development and implementation of safe, effective, and ethical data systems, and clinical data collection procedures. 26 Nurses are often the keepers of important information about the social conditions affecting health for their patients, 28 in part because of the therapeutic relationship that is established. This experience can be used to inform ways to include this information within EHRs, in order to facilitate population health research and program development. Nurse scientists can use data science to enhance the efforts to understand contributors to disparities and develop equitable and effective strategies to help individuals and caregivers manage, for example, chronic illness. 25

Nurse Leaders are Innovators

Post-pandemic, health equity work is entering a new era—one that is focused on solutions and change. To date, much work has been done to identify, with evidence, long-standing and persisting disparities. More recently, there has been more of an emphasis on the development and deployment of solutions that can produce real change toward achieving equitable health care outcomes for all. Nurse leaders are uniquely poised to aid in these efforts as well. Nurses have always been innovators and are responsible for innovations which include the crash cart, feeding tube, pediatric pain scale, and neonatal phototherapy. 29 The formal role of a nurse innovator has been described as cultivating and advocating for the development of concepts and processes that elevate health care, 30 and roles are emerging in healthcare systems and private industry for nursing innovation specialists and officers. 29 Additionally, nurse innovators build partnerships with other health care professionals and institutions for collaborative work involving interdisciplinary and multidisciplinary team members across the disciplines of engineering, design, and medicine.

Over the past decade, numerous initiatives have emerged, all intended to catalyze nurse-led innovations. Examples include the Johnson & Johnson–sponsored initiative to support nurse-led innovation, “J&J Innovation 101,” highlights the potential for nurses to lead in the development of new models of care, safety practices, more efficient processes, as well as innovations that tackle social challenges to improve patient outcomes. 31 In 2016, members of the 2014 Robert Wood Johnson Executive Nurse Fellow Cohort produced “The Innovation Road Map: A Guide for Nurse Leaders,” with the intention of equipping nurse leaders with the means to introduce innovation into their practice settings and organizations. 32 The guide articulates the characteristics and components of innovation, emphasizing the necessity of divergent thinking, risk taking, failure tolerance, agility, and autonomy to make change. 32

In 2018, the American Nurses Association (ANA) established an annual “Innovation Award” aiming to highlight, recognize, and celebrate nurse-led innovation that improves patient safety outcomes. 33 The awards are presented to a nurse or a nurse-led team whose product, program, project, or practice best exemplify nurse-led innovation in patient safety and/or outcomes. The recently revamped website affirms the ANA’s stated dedication to building a culture of innovation across the nursing profession. 33 The initiative seeks to connect nurses with educational and aspirational content, and events, and even has an accompanying podcast 33 dedicated to inspiring nurse-led innovation. Nurse leaders can seize these opportunities to contribute to innovations that will advance the science of health equity as well as incubate novel and effective health equity solutions.

Nurse Leaders are Advocates

Americans have rated nurses as the most ethical and honest profession, according to the most recent Gallup poll, 34 for the 19th year in a row. 35 Nurses have been the number 1 ranking profession since the inception of the Gallup list in 1999 with the exception of 1 year, and the most recent 2020 poll revealed record setting numbers, where 89% of Americans rated nurses’ honesty and ethical standards as “high'' or “very high.” 35 Given the public’s trust in nursing, nurse leaders have an obligation to be good stewards of that trust, serving as healers as well as advocates.

Nurses are called to be advocates by virtue of our profession, and advocacy is a standard of practice for public health nursing. 36 In 2014, The Association of Public Health Nurses (APHN) established a Health Equity and Social Justice Committee for the purposes of updating the Association’s position on these important principles in order to continue to provide guidance to practicing public health nurses. 15 APHN defines health equity as “an ideal state marked by fairness and the achievement of optimal health and well-being for all populations, where disparities in health status are eliminated across populations by race, ethnicity, gender, gender identity, geography, disability, religion, sexual [orientation] and mental status.” 15 Public health nurse leaders often find themselves in roles that compel them to communicate information about communities, including the importance of language and culture, to policy makers in a way that catalyzes strategic mobilization to improve the health status of people living in those communities. 15

In January 2021, President Biden and Vice President Harris released a National Strategy and COVID-19 Health Equity Task Force specifically aimed at addressing COVID-19–related health and social inequities. 37 A nurse, Mary Turner, was named as 1 of the 12 task force members to contribute to policy development intended to address COVID-19–related inequities. While this is a step in the right direction, it is imperative that nurses continue to embrace their potential to advocate and lead in times of public health crises such as the health equity crisis that will persist long after the COVID-19 pandemic abates. Nurse leaders must confidently assert themselves on matters of health policy, extending the role of patient advocate beyond the bedside and into the community.

Nurse Leaders are Educators

Nursing faculty carry the important responsibility of ensuring that tomorrow’s nurses and nurse researchers are ready to care for and conduct research with diverse and sometimes marginalized or vulnerable populations. In 2018, although 19.3% of nurses completed graduate school training, only 1.9% of the nation's registered nurses held a doctoral degree as their highest educational preparation, 38 and the current demand far exceeds supply. 9 , 39 According to the American Association of Colleges of Nursing report on 2019-2020 Enrollment and Graduations in Baccalaureate and Graduate Programs in Nursing, nursing schools in the United States (U.S.) turned away more than 80,000 qualified applications from baccalaureate and graduate nursing programs in 2019 due in part to an insufficient number of faculty and the majority of respondents identified faculty shortages as a top reason for not accepting all qualified applicants into their programs. 9 This shortage has prompted multiple efforts to increase support for more nursing faculty to meet demand. 9

More than a decade ago, nursing education experienced a refocusing of efforts from training alone to education that incorporates health disparities and SDOH. 40 Given the recognized and central role racism, stereotyping, segregation, and classism play in health equity and SDOH, nurse educators must address through nursing training the complex relationships that exist between the individual, interpersonal, institutional, social, and political factors that influence health. 40 Strategies to promote cultural humility 41 and community-based participatory methods play a key role in continued progress and future efforts to realize the role of nursing in advancing health equity. Towards this end, nurse educators must support, foster, and broaden these opportunities.

In addition to training upcoming generations of nurses and nurse scholars, nurse leaders are called to critically assess and combat institutionalized racism within the nursing profession itself. 42 Recent statistics reported in the Health Resources and Services Administration National Sample Survey of Registered Nurses, 38 reveal that the nursing population in the U.S. consists of 10.2% Hispanic, 7.8% Black, 5.2% Asian, and 0.3% American Indian/Alaska Native nurses. By contrast, the race/ethnic distribution of the US population, based on the 2020 Census, is 18.5% Hispanic or Latino, 13.4% Black, and 5.9% Asian. 43 Additionally, according to the most recent National Nursing Workforce Survey performed by the National Council of State Boards of Nursing, while the proportion of male nurses has increased to 9% compared to just 2% in 1970 44 , it continues to reflect an opportunity for diversification of the profession. Nurse leaders, especially in education, have a crucial role to play in diversifying the nursing workforce and, in doing so, ensuring diversity in nurse leadership for the future. Some recommendations for how nurse leaders may facilitate this include strengthening a commitment by nurse leadership in academia and nursing schools to increase the diversity within the nursing workforce by implementing and evaluating innovative recruitment strategies. 42

What Nurse Leaders Can Do Today to Advance Health Equity

Nurse leaders have an undeniable opportunity to lead the way on the path towards achieving health equity for all. Regardless of the specific leadership role(s), nurse leaders can take tangible steps to move the nation towards this goal. For example, nurse scientists can ensure SDOH are not only present in the EHR but also that the information is utilized for improving care and care outcomes. Nurse innovators can use patient information and an understanding of patient experience to identify and develop new solutions to address inequities in health care both within clinical settings and communities. As advocates, nurse leaders must be active in local and national legislative discussions to ensure that nursing’s voice is heard, and unique perspectives are shared. Finally, nurse educators and administrators of nursing schools have an opportunity to remove barriers to nursing education for students from socioeconomically disadvantaged groups. Further, leaders in nurse education can prioritize the creation and integration of educational content intended to reduce racism and other forms of systemic discrimination. 42

Nurse leaders are scientists, innovators, advocates, and educators—and often a combination of many or all of these roles. As such, now is the time to realize our full potential as leaders and change-makers toward advancing health equity for all.

Kristen M.J. Azar, RN, MSN/MPH, FAHA, serves as the scientific medical director of the Sutter Health Institute for Advancing Health Equity in California ( www.sutterhealth.org/about/health-equity ), is a research scientist within Sutter Health's Research Enterprise in Sacramento, California, and a doctoral student at the Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, University of California, in San Francisco, California. She completed her nursing education at the Johns Hopkins University School of Nursing and public health training at the Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health. She can be reached at [email protected] .

Note: This research did not receive any specific grant from funding agencies in the public, commercial, or not-for-profit sectors.

Inspiring Leadership in Nursing: Key Topics to Empower the Next Generation of Nurse Leaders

This article was written in collaboration with Christine T. and ChatGPT, our little helper developed by OpenAI.

Nursing leadership plays a crucial role in the healthcare industry, influencing the quality of patient care and the overall performance of healthcare organizations. As the nursing profession continues to evolve, aspiring nurse leaders must stay informed about the latest developments and best practices in nursing leadership. This comprehensive guide explores essential nursing leadership topics, offering valuable insights and strategies for success.

The Importance of Nursing Leadership

Impact on patient care.

Effective nursing leadership directly impacts patient care, ensuring that nurses provide safe, high-quality, and evidence-based care. Nurse leaders play a critical role in developing and implementing policies, protocols, and standards of practice that promote positive patient outcomes.

Topic Examples

• The role of nurse leaders in reducing hospital-acquired infections
• How nurse leaders can improve patient satisfaction
• The effect of nursing leadership on patient safety initiatives
• Combating health care-associated infections: a community-based approach
• Nurse leaders’ impact on the reduction of medication errors
• Promoting patient-centered care through nursing leadership
• The role of nurse leaders in implementing evidence-based practices to improve patient outcomes
• How transformational leadership can positively impact patient satisfaction
• The impact of nurse leaders on patient safety and error reduction initiatives

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Influence on Organizational Performance

Nurse leaders contribute to the overall performance of healthcare organizations by guiding and supporting nursing teams, managing resources, and participating in decision-making processes. Their leadership helps create a positive work environment, reduce staff turnover, and improve patient satisfaction.

• How nurse leaders can contribute to reducing staff turnover
• The role of nurse leaders in improving the hospital’s financial performance
• Nurse leaders as drivers of organizational culture
• The integral role of nurses in healthcare systems: the importance of education and experience
• The relationship between nurse leadership and hospital readmission rates
• How nurse leaders can contribute to reducing healthcare costs
• The role of nurse leaders in promoting interprofessional collaboration to improve organizational performance
• Strategies for nurse leaders to foster a positive work environment
• The impact of nursing leadership on employee engagement and satisfaction

Advancement of the Nursing Profession

Nurse leaders advocate for nursing, promoting professional development, innovation, and research. They also work to elevate the nursing profession’s status, fostering collaboration and interdisciplinary partnerships.

• The role of nurse leaders in shaping the future of nursing education
• How nurse leaders can advocate for the nursing profession
• The impact of nurse leaders on the development of nursing standards and policies
• Encouraging research and evidence-based practice among nursing teams
• The role of nurse leaders in promoting interprofessional collaboration
• Encouraging the pursuit of advanced nursing degrees and certifications among nursing staff
• The impact of nurse leaders on shaping healthcare policies and regulations
• How nurse leaders can advocate for improved working conditions and fair compensation for nursing staff

Essential Nursing Leadership Skills

Communication and interpersonal skills.

Effective communication and interpersonal skills are crucial for nursing leaders. They must listen actively, express themselves clearly, and demonstrate empathy and understanding when interacting with colleagues, patients, and families.

• Active listening skills for nurse leaders
• Developing emotional intelligence in nursing leadership
• The role of nonverbal communication in nursing leadership
• Strategies for nurse leaders to improve communication with their teams
• How nurse leaders can facilitate open and honest feedback
• The importance of emotional intelligence in nurse leadership
• Strategies for nurse leaders to improve their communication skills with diverse populations
• The role of nurse leaders in fostering effective communication within interdisciplinary healthcare teams

Decision-Making and Problem-Solving Abilities

Nurse leaders must be skilled in making informed decisions and solving complex problems. They should be able to analyze situations, weigh the pros and cons of various options, and choose the best course of action.

• Critical thinking skills for nurse leaders
• Ethical decision-making in nursing leadership
• The role of evidence-based practice in nursing leadership decisions
• Strategies for nurse leaders to develop effective problem-solving skills
• The importance of collaboration and teamwork in decision-making for nurse leaders
• The role of nurse leaders in crisis management and emergency preparedness
• How nurse leaders can develop effective problem-solving strategies to address complex healthcare challenges

Time Management and Organization

Managing time and resources effectively is essential for nurse leaders. They must be able to prioritize tasks, delegate responsibilities, and balance competing demands to ensure the smooth operation of their teams and organizations.

• Prioritization techniques for nurse leaders
• The role of delegation in effective time management for nursing managers
• Strategies for nurse leaders to manage workload and reduce stress
• Balancing clinical and administrative responsibilities as a nurse leader
• Time management tools and techniques for nurse leaders
• The importance of delegation in nurse leadership
• Strategies for nurse leaders to effectively manage their workload and prioritize tasks
• The role of nurse leaders in creating efficient workflows and processes within nursing teams

Embracing Diversity and Inclusivity in Nursing Leadership

The value of a diverse nursing workforce.

A diverse nursing workforce brings unique perspectives, experiences, and skills to the healthcare environment, benefiting patient care. By embracing diversity, nurse leaders can foster a more inclusive and supportive work environment that encourages collaboration and innovation.

• The benefits of diverse nursing teams for patient care
• The role of nurse leaders in recruiting and retaining diverse nursing staff
• Addressing health disparities through a diverse nursing workforce
• The impact of cultural competence on nursing practice and leadership
• Encouraging diverse perspectives and experiences in nursing teams
• Global health learning in nursing and health care disparities
• The benefits of having a diverse nursing workforce on patient outcomes and satisfaction
• Addressing health disparities through culturally competent nursing leadership

Strategies for Promoting Diversity and Inclusion

Nurse leaders can promote diversity and inclusion by implementing hiring and promotion practices that support equal opportunities, offering cultural competency training, and actively addressing discrimination and bias within their organizations.

• Overcoming unconscious bias in nursing leadership
• The role of nurse leaders in fostering an inclusive work environment
• Strategies for promoting diversity and inclusion in nursing education
• The impact of diversity and inclusion on nursing team performance
• Encouraging cultural competence and sensitivity among nursing staff
• Implementing diversity and inclusion training programs for nursing staff
• The role of nurse leaders in fostering a culture of respect and inclusivity within nursing teams
• Strategies for nurse leaders to address unconscious bias and promote equity in the workplace

Developing and Mentoring Future Nurse Leaders

Identifying and nurturing leadership potential.

Nurse leaders play an essential role in identifying and nurturing the leadership potential of their staff. By offering guidance, encouragement, and opportunities for growth, they can help prepare the next generation of nurse leaders.

• Recognizing leadership potential in nursing staff
• Strategies for nurse leaders to develop their team’s leadership skills
• The importance of succession planning in nursing leadership
• Encouraging a growth mindset among nursing teams
• The role of mentorship and coaching in nurturing future nurse leaders
• Strategies for nurse leaders to identify and develop emerging nurse leaders within their teams
• The role of nurse leaders in creating leadership development programs for nursing staff

Mentorship and Coaching

Mentorship and coaching are invaluable for aspiring nurse leaders. By sharing their knowledge, experience, and insights, experienced nurse leaders can help guide and support those looking to advance in nursing.

• The benefits of mentorship for both mentors and mentees in nursing
• Developing effective mentoring relationships in nursing
• The role of nurse leaders in fostering a mentoring culture
• Strategies for providing constructive feedback and coaching to nursing staff
• Encouraging professional growth and development through mentorship
• The benefits of mentorship relationships for both mentors and mentees in nursing
• Strategies for nurse leaders to establish effective mentorship programs within their organizations
• The role of nurse leaders in providing coaching and feedback to nursing staff for professional growth

Promoting Teamwork and Collaboration in Nursing

The importance of teamwork in healthcare.

Teamwork is crucial for delivering safe, high-quality patient care. Nurse leaders must foster a culture of collaboration, encouraging open communication, mutual support, and shared decision-making among their teams.

• The role of nurse leaders in promoting effective teamwork
• Strategies for building trust and collaboration among nursing teams
• The impact of teamwork on patient care and safety
• The benefits of interprofessional collaboration in healthcare
• The role of nurse leaders in fostering a positive team culture
• The role of nurse leaders in promoting collaboration and teamwork among nursing staff
• Strategies for nurse leaders to address and resolve conflicts within nursing teams
• The impact of effective teamwork on patient outcomes and staff satisfaction in healthcare settings

Strategies for Building Effective Nursing Teams

Nurse leaders can build effective nursing teams by promoting shared goals and values, providing clear expectations and feedback, and recognizing and celebrating team achievements. Additionally, they should facilitate team-building activities and opportunities for professional development, which can strengthen team cohesion and performance.

• The importance of clear communication and expectations in nursing teams
• Strategies for addressing and resolving conflicts within nursing teams
• The role of team-building activities in fostering collaboration and trust among nursing staff
• The impact of shared decision-making on nursing team performance
• Encouraging a culture of continuous improvement and learning within nursing teams
• The role of nurse leaders in selecting and retaining top nursing talent
• Strategies for nurse leaders to create a positive work environment that fosters teamwork and collaboration
• The importance of team-building activities and exercises for nursing staff

Advocating for Nursing and Improving Patient Care

Policy and advocacy.

Nurse leaders are responsible for advocating for policies and initiatives that support the nursing profession and improve patient care. They should be informed about healthcare legislation, engage in advocacy efforts, and encourage their teams to participate in policy-making.

• The role of nurse leaders in shaping healthcare policy
• Strategies for nurse leaders to advocate for the nursing profession at the local, state, and national levels
• The impact of nursing leadership on the development and implementation of healthcare policies and regulations
• Engaging nursing staff in policy discussions and advocacy efforts
• The importance of staying informed about current healthcare policy issues for nurse leaders
• The role of nurse leaders in advocating for policies that improve patient care and support the nursing profession
• Strategies for nurse leaders to effectively engage with policymakers and stakeholders
• The impact of nurse leaders on shaping healthcare policies at the local, state, and national levels

Driving Quality Improvement and Innovation

Nurse leaders must be committed to continuous quality improvement and innovation in patient care. By staying informed about evidence-based practices and encouraging their teams to adopt innovative approaches, they can drive positive change within their organizations and the healthcare industry.

• The role of nurse leaders in promoting a culture of continuous quality improvement
• Strategies for nurse leaders to identify and address areas for improvement in patient care
• The impact of nursing leadership on the implementation of evidence-based practices and innovations
• Encouraging a culture of creativity and innovation among nursing teams
• The role of nurse leaders in driving change and improvement in healthcare organizations
• The role of nurse leaders in leading quality improvement initiatives within their organizations
• Strategies for nurse leaders to foster a culture of continuous improvement and innovation among nursing staff
• The impact of nurse-led quality improvement projects on patient care and organizational performance

Fostering a Positive Work Environment

Creating a supportive and respectful culture.

A positive work environment is essential for nursing staff satisfaction, retention, and performance. Nurse leaders should foster a culture of support and respect where staff feels valued, empowered, and motivated to provide the best possible care.

• The role of nurse leaders in fostering a positive work environment
• Strategies for nurse leaders to promote a culture of support and respect among nursing staff
• The importance of addressing and preventing workplace bullying and incivility in nursing
• Encouraging open and honest communication within nursing teams
• The role of nurse leaders in promoting work-life balance and well-being among nursing staff

Addressing Workplace Challenges and Conflicts

Nurse leaders must be proactive in addressing workplace challenges and conflicts. They can maintain a healthy and productive work environment by developing and implementing strategies to manage issues such as workload, burnout, and interpersonal conflicts.

• The role of nurse leaders in conflict resolution within nursing teams
• Strategies for nurse leaders to address common workplace challenges, such as staffing shortages and burnout
• The importance of developing a proactive approach to addressing conflicts and challenges in nursing
• Promoting a culture of accountability and responsibility among nursing staff
• The role of nurse leaders in providing support and resources for nursing staff facing challenges and conflicts
• Conflict resolution strategies for nurse leaders
• The role of nurse leaders in mediating and resolving interprofessional conflicts within healthcare teams
• Strategies for nurse leaders to prevent and address workplace burnout among nursing staff

Lifelong Learning and Professional Development

Commitment to continuing education.

Lifelong learning is essential for nurse leaders to stay current with healthcare and nursing practice advances. They should pursue continuing education opportunities, research, and stay informed about industry trends and best practices.

• The importance of lifelong learning for nurse leaders and nursing staff
• Strategies for nurse leaders to promote a culture of continuous education and professional development within their teams
• The impact of continuing education on nursing practice and leadership
• Encouraging nursing staff to engage in professional development opportunities
• Transforming advanced nursing practice: embracing IOM recommendations and higher education
• The role of nurse leaders in staying informed about current nursing research and best practices
• The impact of continuing education on nursing practice and patient outcomes
• Strategies for nurse leaders to support and encourage continuing education among their nursing staff
• The role of nurse leaders in staying up-to-date with the latest nursing research, guidelines, and best practices

Encouraging Professional Development in Nursing Teams

Nurse leaders should support and encourage the professional development of their nursing teams. By providing resources, opportunities, and encouragement, they can help their staff grow professionally and contribute to advancing the nursing profession.

• The role of nurse leaders in identifying professional development opportunities for nursing staff
• Strategies for nurse leaders to create individualized professional development plans for their team members
• The importance of fostering a growth mindset among nursing staff
• Encouraging nursing staff to participate in conferences, workshops, and other professional development activities
• The role of nurse leaders in providing mentorship and guidance for nursing staff seeking career advancement
• The benefits of ongoing professional development for nursing staff and healthcare organizations
• Strategies for nurse leaders to create professional development opportunities within their organizations
• The role of nurse leaders in developing and implementing career advancement pathways for nursing staff

The Power of Inspiring Leadership in Nursing

Nursing leadership is a critical component of the healthcare industry, impacting patient care, organizational performance, and the advancement of the nursing profession. By mastering essential leadership skills, embracing diversity, promoting teamwork, and fostering a positive work environment, aspiring nurse leaders can make a meaningful difference in the lives of their patients, colleagues, and organizations. Committing to lifelong learning and professional development will ensure that nurse leaders remain at the forefront of their field, inspiring and empowering the next generation of nursing professionals.

Table of content

Crafted with Care:

Nursing Essays!

Precision, Passion, & Professionalism in Every Page.

Nursing Leadership and Management Issues Essay

It is difficult to overestimate the role of communication skills for nurses because they meet a great variety of people every day. In addition, everyone has to develop leadership skills if they want to make a real difference. I think the course advanced my knowledge of the leadership concept, and the implementation of theory helped me improve patient care delivery.

As a nurse, I work in a team, and therefore it is hard to underestimate the role of effective communication. I analyzed the reasons why work in a group is sometimes so stressful to me and understood my direction for growth. One of the reasons for failure in communication lies in the inability to encourage an exchange of information (Weiss et al., 2019). The probable decision is to learn to ask the right questions and concise questions. Additionally, researchers point out the value of prioritizing (Weiss et al., 2019).

Revising my views on setting priorities, I realized I used to do it unconsciously. However, now I carefully evaluate what I should do, estimate the time, and explore delegation possibilities. These changes not only allowed me to increase my effectiveness but to concentrate more on patients’ problems.

While working with patients, it is crucial to establish contact and motivate them to strive for healing. The possible direction for growth that I see is the development of emotional intelligence. An emotionally intelligent leader is a good listener, i.e., emotional intelligence allows leaders to sense the unspoken, feel the perspectives, and recognize the motivation of others (Weiss et al., 2019). Sometimes I meet patients who are eager to impress me with the nature of their illness. Others are closed and silent, so I need more observations to realize their needs. Hence, I practice my skills as an active listener to consider their individual character traits, dispel fears and gain the patients’ trust to ensure that my patients will confidently go to any diagnostic procedure.

Due to the course, my leadership attitude changed greatly since I started to apply new knowledge to my practice. I recognized the perspectives for my self-improvement, such as emotional intelligence and prioritizing, and now I have some positive results. Moreover, I believe that further exploration of the topic could make me a more confident and stress-resistant person.

Weiss, S. A., Tappen, R. M., & Grimley, K. (2019). Essentials of nursing leadership & management (7 th ed.). F. A. Davis Company.

• Delegation and Empowerment
• Quality Improvement Plan: Implementing and Revising
• Personal Communication Skills and Their Development
• Nursing: The Ana’s Call to Action
• Discussion of Nurse-Patient Ratio
• Importance of Safety of Patient in Nursing
• Changing a Client’s Life From a Mess to Happiness
• Aspects of Nursing Leadership
• Chicago (A-D)
• Chicago (N-B)

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How – and why – the school centers leadership in all it does

By Annette Filliat

Student Ambassador leaders Kerricka McRunells, Cherry Park, Michael Curtis Jr., and Sarah Keane. Photo by Lauren Liz Photo.

Most people experience a time when they find themselves at a crossroads — faced with a weighty decision that will profoundly affect the future.

According to School of Nursing Dean Linda A. McCauley 79MN, PhD, RN, FAAN, FRCN, the nursing profession stands at such a junction. The path that nursing has traveled to this intersection has been exemplary — nurses are the most trusted health profession, with good reason — but the terrain around the path is increasingly daunting.

Dean McCauley speaks about the school’s accomplishments, including leadership initiatives, at the recent alumni awards dinner.

The expertise of nurses is needed throughout the fabric of health care, and that’s why the School of Nursing is fostering a culture of leadership for nurse leaders to become changemakers in our evolving landscape. — Dean Linda McCauley

“The nursing shortage is a consistent reality,” McCauley says. “Nurses face challenges to their health and wellness, and new health technologies emerge by the minute. Academic leaders need strategies to increase the number of faculty, preceptors and students, and health care systems need strategies to keep nurses in their fold. The diversity of the nursing workforce, along with the diversity of patient populations, requires a new focus and range of work settings.”

McCauley believes that amid these realities, the nursing field needs bold leaders who are unafraid to make unconventional choices — people willing to stand at the edge of the profession to push it forward.

“These issues demand different thinking. We cannot keep doing what we’ve always done,” continues McCauley. “Our profession is at a crossroads that calls for a different kind of nursing leadership.” 

Last year, the school launched a webinar series, “Conversations from the Edge,” to explore the crossroads and new models of nursing leadership. Clinical Professor Tim Porter-O’Grady, DM, EdD, ScD(H), APRN, FAAN, FACCWS, was one of the series hosts, along with McCauley and Emory Healthcare Chief Nurse Executive Sharon Pappas, PhD, RN, NEA-BC, FAAN.

“Financial and practice impact are the two primary indicators of value for professions,” Porter-O’Grady says. “Historically, nurses have been on the cost side of the balance sheet and managed as an expense. As a result, nurses feel undervalued because their full impact in advancing health care is not fully acknowledged.”

Lalita Kaligotla, PhD, professor of the practice and senior director for leadership and engagement at the school, agrees. “Nurses are central to the patient experience and the linchpin within health care systems,” she says. “Given their centrality, they have a high potential to lead in many ways. Yet, the leadership roles that nurses play with patients are often hidden.” 

As the nation’s largest and most trusted health profession, nursing can influence policy and change. “The expertise of nurses is needed throughout the fabric of health care, and that’s why the School of Nursing is fostering a culture of leadership for nurse leaders to become changemakers in our evolving landscape,” adds McCauley. 

Faculty and students engage in advocacy at the 2024 Nurses Day at the Capitol, sponsored by the Georgia Nurses Association event in March.

‘Walking the Talk’ of Leadership

The School of Nursing weaves leadership throughout the student experience, says Paula Tucker 10MSN 24PhD, DNP, FNP-BC, ENP-C, FAANP, clinical associate professor and family/emergency nurse practitioner program director. “The school encourages engagement in committees and organizations, the curriculum integrates robust objectives emphasizing leadership, and faculty members encourage students to refine leadership through research and service learning,” she adds. “These experiences facilitate interprofessional collaboration and contribute to their development, so they are well prepared to make lasting contributions to health care.”

Assistant Clinical Professor Chelsea Hagopian 12BSN 14MSN 18DNP, APRN, AGACNP-BC, models leadership as she accompanies her pre-licensure students to the Georgia Nurses Association’s Nurses Day at the Capitol each year. At this event, students apply the foundational knowledge of leadership they learn in the classroom to engage in policy advocacy around issues that matter to them. The event is one of many opportunities students have to take part in health care advocacy.

Clinical track faculty also participate in community-based partnerships, with several leading U.S. Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) grants to advance health delivery in underserved areas. As they involve students in their work, they show how nurses can lead outside typical acute care settings.

“Watching faculty is a rich source of learning that happens as students are in the early formation of their professional identity in nursing,” Hagopian says. “We are walking the talk with our students to model the importance of leading self first in navigating real-world challenges — and demonstrating in our own ways the tremendous potential to affect positive change in the world as a nurse.”

A student learns about the nursing profession at the Latino Youth Leadership Conference.

National Association of Hispanic Nurses President and Emory Visiting Scholar Adrianna Nava (second from right) and students Leslie Trejo, Penelope Sugg 24BSN, Kharen Bamaca-Forkel 24BSN, Fabiane Sención, Luis Espinosa, Cassie Ramos 24MN, and Hilario Morales advocate for Latinx health and workforce policy during an association event in Washington, D.C., in February.

A nurse anesthesia student demonstrates skills to high school students attending the Latino Youth Leadership Conference.

Growing Diverse Leaders 

Only 7 percent of registered nurses in the United States report being of Hispanic or Latino ethnicity — a percentage that is disproportionately lower than the overall Latinx population, according to the 2022 National Nursing Workforce Survey.

Statistics like this one — coupled with the understanding that increasingly diverse patient populations deserve a diverse nursing workforce — drive the school to ensure its leadership initiatives focus on diversity. 

Each fall, the school participates in the Latino Youth Leadership Conference, where Latinx middle and high school students across the state visit participating Emory schools and explore educational pathways. Emory partners with the Latin American Association to host the conference.

During the conference, nursing student leaders run hands-on, health care-based learning stations for conference participants — introducing them to nursing school and the profession while sharing insights from their journey in the field. 

Lisa Nuñez, director of the school’s Lillian Carter Center for Global Health and Social Responsibility and a longtime conference volunteer, says the event instills leadership in both nursing students and conference attendees.

“The middle and high school students take the initiative to make connections and explore future pathways while the nursing students volunteer to uplift the community,” she adds. 

Fabiane Sención, an MSN-FNP student who has been involved with the conference for the past two years, says that the conference provides opportunities for Latinx students to see themselves represented in professional fields, including nursing and health care, which are crucial for fostering ambition and breaking barriers. 

“The conference opens doors to opportunities often scarce in our community,” she says.

In February, Sención joined fellow Latinx students Luis Espinosa, Hilario Morales, Cassie Ramos 24MN, Penelope Sugg 24BSN, and Leslie Trejo as policy scholars at the National Association of Hispanic Nurses (NAHN) Hispanic Health Policy Summit in Washington, D.C. They participated in a panel discussion led by NAHN President Adrianna Nava, PhD, MPA, MSN, RN, who has been serving as a visiting professor at the school. Along with NAHN student member Kharen Bamaca-Forkel 24BSN, they met with Angela Ramirez, deputy chief of staff for the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, and U.S. Rep. Nikema Williams to advocate for Latinx health and nursing workforce policies.

Morales, a BSN student, said the conference was transformational, empowering him to use his voice and build his leadership muscle. 

“All of us felt honored to tell our stories, and our experiences solidified a deep appreciation for the powerful potential of story sharing to contribute to discussions and shape policies,” he says. “I learned how beautiful it is to share our perspectives because everyone’s upbringing is different, and we have much to bring to the table to create change.”

“Our profession is at a crossroads that calls for a different kind of nursing leadership.”

Dean Linda McCauley

Leading the Drive for Change

Understanding that positive changes in nursing can only happen in the presence of clear and reliable data, the school recently became the new home of the Georgia Nursing Workforce Center, which researches issues of nursing supply and demand. Issues include retention, recruitment, educational capacity, and the distribution of nursing workforce resources. The school collaborates with the Georgia Nursing Leadership Coalition on the center's work and serves as the state representative at the National Forum of State Nursing Workforce Centers.

The center recently released the first report of its kind in the state on Georgia’s advanced practice nursing education programs. The report provided a snapshot of potential increases in this workforce, which helps the state’s nursing schools, health care entities, and policymakers make more informed decisions, specifically around access to care. 

“Being housed at the School of Nursing positions the Georgia Nursing Workforce Center to work with the community of interested parties across the state to build a robust data infrastructure and serve as the definitive trusted source for seeking and sharing timely, actionable data on the nursing workforce in Georgia,” says Hagopian, who serves as director of the center.

Individual faculty members have taken up the leadership mantle as well. Shawana Moore, DNP, APRN, WHPC-BC, PNAP, FAAN, and Jessica Wells 12PhD, RN, WHNP-BC, FAAN, are past president and president-elect, respectively, of the National Association of Nurse Practitioners in Women’s Health. Jennifer Adamski, DNP, APRN, ACNP-BC, CCRN, FCCM, is president-elect of the American Association of Critical-Care Nurses, and Erin Poe Ferranti 96Ox 98BSN 01MSN 01MPH 13PhD, RN, CDCES, FAHA, FPCNA, FAAN, serves as president of the Preventative Cardiovascular Nurses Association. Faculty crisscross the globe sharing their expertise at professional conferences, and they inform the public about such issues as health disparities and environmental health.

Shawana Moore, top left, and Jessica Wells, top right, are past president and president-elect, respectively, of the National Association of Nurse Practitioners in Women’s Health. Jennifer Adamski, bottom left, is president-elect of the American Association of Critical-Care Nurses. Erin Poe Ferranti, bottom right, serves as president of the Preventative Cardiovascular Nurses Association.

The school’s focus on AI/data science is another example of how it is leading change. The school has invested in a high-performance computing cluster to perform cutting-edge research and give students real-world experience working with big data, and launched a data science certificate program to equip nurses to use big data to improve health care processes and improve patient outcomes.

The school’s focus on data-driven nursing science aligns with the recommendations from the National Academy of Medicine that all health care systems should include nursing expertise when generating and applying data to support initiatives focused on social determinants of health and health equity.

“In all that we do, we are preparing our students for a complex, data-driven world and fostering their ethical, equity-oriented, and patient-centered leadership,” says Laura Kimble, PhD, RN, FNP-C, FAHA, FAAN, associate dean for academic operations and clinical professor. “Emory aspires to lead, and we are educating our students to be confident leaders who are committed to our profession and will drive innovation that will change the future of our health care system.”

How is the School of Nursing developing nurse leaders?

Increasing the size of programs and the number of graduates .

Building and nurturing strong relationships with practice partners.

Developing new programs such as cardiovascular perfusion and AI/data science.

Launching leadership programs encouraging nursing undergraduate students to pursue a PhD or DNP at Emory.

Using school resources to promote the work of faculty, staff and students.  

Supporting faculty scholarship that leads to change in their areas of expertise.

Developing an advanced leadership academy designed specifically for faculty and staff.

Community Voices

Why is nursing leadership important?

Leadership in nursing is not only important but essential to advancing any health care system. Nurses provide a patient- and community-centered perspective as they understand the needs of populations at a foundational level. Nurses are the backbone of the system, and it is crucial to have their voices recognized to deliver positive patient outcomes. 

Elise Cooper 24MN

Nell Hodgson Woodruff School of Nursing

How did the Emory School of Nursing prepare you to be a nursing leader? 

The Emory School of Nursing instilled such a good, formative education that I had the confidence and skills to step into leadership roles. I remember being in our old building beside Harris Hall and hearing that more was expected of me because I would be an "Emory Nurse." We had amazing forward-thinking faculty who were nursing leaders teaching our courses.

Maeve Howett 06PhD, APRN, CPNP-PC, CNE, FAAN

Clinical Professor and Associate Dean for Strategic Initiatives

University at Buffalo-SUNY School of Nursing

What does leadership mean to you?

Leadership means having the ability to inspire and guide others toward a common goal, fostering teamwork and innovation. This often entails setting a vision, motivating individuals, and making effective decisions to achieve the desired results.

Dyke Crane 23MDiv

Senior Program Coordinator for Diversity, Equity and Inclusion

How are you continuing to grow as a nurse leader?

I try to engage with a variety of groups of people to understand different backgrounds and cultures. Also, I think it is very important to be flexible at work to accommodate unforeseen stressful circumstances. Being a member of nursing professional organizations helps me expand my knowledge and explore new approaches that may be helpful.

Somi Kim, CCRN, RN, MSN 

DNP Student

Shift Nurse Manager/Unit Charge Nurse

Emory Saint Joseph’s Hospital

Who modeled nursing leadership for you?

The first one was Margaret Parsons, a faculty member and former interim dean of the School of Nursing who was our class advisor and mentor. She was incredibly down to earth and could talk to you at any level. And she was always a nurse first. When you did clinicals with her at the VA, she had a tiny brass nametag that said, "M PARSONS, RN.’" That was it, and it always stayed with me.

Darrell Owens 90BSN, DNP, FAAN, CT

Associate Medical Director of Palliative Care

University of Washington Medical Center, Northwest Campus 

What traits make for a great nurse leader?

Nurses are trained to see all aspects of care from a holistic perspective. This translates well into leadership. Great nurse leaders listen carefully, address needs quickly, are empathetic, and understand how high-functioning teams ultimately deliver the best patient care.

Katherine Abraham Evans 03MSN, DNP, FNP-C, GNP-BC, ACHPN, FAANP

Chief Nursing Officer and Senior Vice President of Clinical Operations

Cardiovascular Associates of America-Novocardia Division

How did your mentors demonstrate leadership? 

I was mentored by incredibly talented, hardworking and brilliant nurse scientists who consistently demonstrated the leadership skills needed to manage large interdisciplinary research teams. Specifically, I saw how these nurse leaders could identify the strengths of each team member and support them to contribute effectively to advancing research studies and disseminating findings.

Nicholas Giordano, PhD, RN, FAAN 

Assistant Professor