Nurses are most definitely comparable to quarterbacks on the football field. We must be very attentive towards the various interdisciplinary players on the field of any healthcare unit. We must be able to accurately seek input, while maintaining respect for the contributions of everyone involved; this allows each “player” to practice at their highest potential (Clark & Hassmiller, 2013). Nurses as leaders are very dedicated individuals, spending an entire career expanding themselves through continuing education and practice. This commitment to hard work and determination provides the best healthcare possible. These are often standards that are set by nurses across all disciplines (Clark & Hassmiller, 2013). Nursing roles are diverse in function, as you mentioned; the RN may be designated a leadership position over a shift, such as charge; or employ a formal nurse leadership role such as an educator or supervisor. Nursing is very versatile which allows for personalities to flourish into their highest and best use.
It is my belief that nurses should continue to evolve and develop throughout their careers. Continual growth is the counter measure to stagnation. Like many biological creatures, a nursing career can be nurtured or hindered by its environment. Take the example of Dr. Melanie Dreher; practicing in a leadership capacity four decades as an educator serving as Dean at the following Universities: The University of Miami, the University of Massachusetts at Amhurst, the University of Iowa, and the Rush University College of Nursing. She has conducted research studies subsequently quoted in: the New York Times, Wall Street Journal, and the Chronicle of Higher Education. Dr. Dreher has a very impressive career and has since retired from education, she now sits as a member of the Chicago Board of Health, a Director of Wellmark Blue Cross/Blue Shield, a Trustee of Loyola University, a member of the Fiduciary Board of AvaSure, and Chair of the Board of Trinity health (Clarke & Dreher, 2016). With such an impressive résumé, I would take her advice pertaining to any nursing subject matter as well as personal advice.
Dr. Dreher provides advice in this publication identifies transformations within an individual’s career as well as organizational leadership. When a leader vacates a position, and is being replaced by a new leader, this can be comparable to a change of governments. This takes planning and preparation for both parties. Dr. Dreher describes how things function throughout the resignation phase as turbulent. Stated “once you announce your resignation you are yesterday’s news. The faculty and staff are no longer going to pay much attention to what you have to say and are already thinking about who will be the next leader. When asked, agree to continue providing career guidance to seemingly bereft members of the faculty, but don’t be surprised if they never call or email. Everyone moves on; it’s not personal; it’s just the way it is.” (Clarke & Dreher, 2016). Nurses as leaders occupy a healthy amount of space within their role as an interdisciplinary team member. Nonetheless the nurse should continue to develop and expand until they reach their full personal capacity. This is a healthy process that will provide the profession as a whole the highest and best use of the individual.
Clark, P., & Hassmiller, S. (2013, October 1). Nursing Leadership: Interprofessional Education and Practice. Nursing Science Quarterly, 26(4), https://doi.org/10.1177/0894318413500313.
Clarke, P., & Dreher, M. (2016, December 25). Transitions and Transformations in Nursing Leadership. Nursing Science Quarterly, 30(1), https://doi.org/10.1177/0894318416680532.
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