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Essay / Nursing Leadership and Responsibilities - 897
Leader is a title in which a series of skills, attitudes, and actions are required. In the role of a leader, the things that are done are closely monitored and imitated by a group of people; these people are generally known as followers. In nursing, leadership is fundamental to overall practice. For a nurse to hold such a title, they would have to embody all of what a leader should be. A great nurse leader is one who embodies the skills, possesses the attitudes, and excels in the actions of a true leader. Qualities of a top nurse leader include dedication to excellence, interacting effectively, promoting questioning; focuses on solutions, is dedicated, passionate, compassionate and visionary and proud of the nursing profession (Morgan, 2010). The best leaders provide high-quality care through evidence-based practice. The effective leader is also able to allocate resources appropriately, hold others accountable for their work, and incorporate new evidence-based policies and practices (Morgan, 2010). Leaders must be able to provide guidance when necessary and step in to teach when they see someone doing something incorrectly or not doing something at all (Morgan, 2010). These characteristics show their dedication to excellence. They are able to interact with others to teach and guide (Morgan, 2010). Leaders encourage questions, are open to new ideas, and discuss the issues they lead (Morgan, 2010). They know that safety is of the utmost importance and help improve ways of handling situations (Morgan, 2010). The leading nurse leader demonstrates commitment to their patients. They provide everything they can to their patients. They do the best they can with their resources and seek out resources when needed (Morgan, 2010). Patient care must be continuous. Leaders are able to plan and ensure that care is delivered and communicated well (Morgan, 2010). They listen to patients and staff about issues and ensure they are communicated to the appropriate person and addressed (Morgan, 2010). They strive to work as a team to help their patients. They achieve their goals even when they have to work with people who are not part of a team by motivating people to come together (Morgan, 2010). They are able to help change the culture of the team by stopping negative comments (Morgan, 2010). They are able to mentor and model how to be compassionate.