Let's focus on the nursing leader striving to improve staff development support:
Leadership Models and Theories. The transformational leadership model offers longevity between nurse leaders and junior staff on the foundation of effective communication and team building. By promoting a greater sense of purpose, we can work to reduce burnout by supporting inspiration. Within the role theory, the nurse leader uses their strengths to assess strengths in others. Democratic leadership involves nurse leaders participating to use expert knowledge to promote growth in others, while maintaining close relationships in order to increase the impact of education. It is essential for nurse leaders to learn their peers personalities, strengths, and skill sets through working together and building professional relationships. These relationships support a collaborative approach. Nursing leaders modeling cultured practices and encouraging integrity positively influence the morale and work ethic of others.
Putting it to Practice. The American Nurses Association Code of Ethics Provision 5 sets forth that nurses are responsible for maintaining professional competence and continuing their growth and development. Scientific advancements and studies give way to further developments in nursing practice and improved understanding, which leads to the evolution of evidence-based practice. While functioning as an effective leader in nursing, one must utilize evidence-based research and theory development to contribute to advancing patient needs. We can use the Professional Practice Model (PPM), which encompasses a team approach to care that is patient-centered, to ensure that patients receive safe, quality care. As the nursing leader working to promote staff development, this model is key to ensuring that we are collaborating to meet common goals and functioning as resources for each other's development.
Motivate the Team. It is important to consistently remember that notable leaders and educators possess motivational guidance with the capacity to encourage others. Through motivation, leaders can inspire pronounced transformation and support the development of leadership potential in others. In turn, inspired nurses may be more capable of employing evidence-based practices, while striving to cultivate their own awareness of professional self. Being an effective leader encompasses being a proper advocate. Demonstrating proficient actions assists other nurses to develop these qualities as well.
Pause, Reflect, and Plan:
Now, take a moment to reflect on your practice as a nursing leader and staff development educator. How, specifically, do you excel in your role? What steps can you take to improve your impact? Do you feel that others on your team would share these opinions? Perhaps consider a discussion, or two, with a mentor to brainstorm ideas. Hold on to your thoughts for success and take them with you to the floor!