What Makes A Good Nurse Leader?
Yes, we are familiar with nursing leadership and management. In fact, there are seminars and trainings conducted related to such and even subjects incorporated into the nursing curriculum. But why is it important to know about nursing leadership concepts?
Each nurse has that potential within him/her to become a good nurse leader. You don’t really have to occupy the highest position for you to be called a nurse leader. You can be a leader in your own way. As a nurse, you manage other members of the healthcare team, you cause others to act, and you facilitate positive outcomes. But how does one become more effective? What makes a good nurse leader?
Has high regard for others
A good leader sees the best in the people around them. Instead of looking down on colleagues and other members of the team, he/she has a way of making others feel good about themselves. Always treat your colleagues with respect.
Has adequate knowledge and skills
For one to be a good nurse leader, he/she must first possess necessary knowledge and skills and feels confident in that knowledge. Leaders have a sense of what is right and keep that at the heart of everything they do.
An inspiration to others and encourages them to do their best
As a nurse leader, it is important that you do not only tell others what to do. Instead, you must inspire others to improve, to be better, and to do their best. You should be able to give those around you a sense of what needs to be done as well as the desire to do it. And oh, always encourage your staff to perform at top quality.
Acknowledges people’s efforts
Another important thing to remember is to support every member of the team and recognize another’s efforts. Give recognition where and when it is due. Let your co-workers know when they’ve done something right and spectacular. Recognize their worth, services or contributions. This can also be considered as a form of motivation.
Is supportive of others
A good leader is interested in the growth of those around them. As a nurse leader, it is important to provide a supportive environment for staff members to try new skills. Learning the correct methods in healthcare will allow them to develop their skills in a competent manner.
Is open to other’s opinions
A good leader must also be a good follower as well as a good listener. Be open to new ideas and opinions. Listen to what others have to say especially those with different perspectives. Encourage others to voice out their concerns. Listen without judgement. Don’t cut people off in the middle of a sentence. Take the feelings and perspectives of others into account. Furthermore, allow an opportunity for those thoughts and ideas to be put into action. That way, you will be able to let your co-workers know that they are important and that what they have to say are also valuable.
Sources:
http://donnacardillo.com/articles/makingleader/
http://nursing.advanceweb.com/Features/Articles/Effective-Nursing-Leadership.aspx
http://www.americannursetoday.com/nine-principles-of-successful-nursing-leadership/
Liane Clores, RN MAN
Currently an Intensive Care Unit nurse, pursuing a degree in Master of Arts in Nursing Major in Nursing Service Administration. Has been a contributor of Student Nurses Quarterly, Vox Populi, The Hillside Echo and the Voice of Nightingale publications. Other experience include: Medical-Surgical, Pediatric, Obstetric, Emergency and Recovery Room Nursing.
