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Transformational Leadership in Nursing

Stephanie Charney

Department of Nursing, Delaware Technical Community College

NUR400-502 Nursing Leadership

Professor Patricia Wessell

December 3rd, 2023

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Transformational Leadership in Nursing

Transformational leadership is a leadership style that focuses on inspiring and motivating

team members to achieve their full potential and exceed their own expectations (Siangchokyoo et

al., 2020). This approach seeks to create positive and lasting change in individuals and

organizations. Transformational leaders are often charismatic, with a clear vision that energizes

their followers (“What Is Transformational Leadership?,” 2022). They encourage creativity and

create an environment where critical thinking and new ideas are valued. Individual needs and

development are a priority, with leaders providing personalized support and mentorship.

Transformational leaders empower their teams by delegating responsibilities and giving them

autonomy, fostering a sense of ownership (Siangchokyoo et al., 2020). Emotional intelligence is

a key trait, helping leaders understand and manage emotions, build strong relationships, and

navigate complex dynamics (“What Is Transformational Leadership?,” 2022). Transformational

leadership is especially applicable in situations where organizational change, innovation, and a

motivated workforce are vital for success. Transformational leadership enhances organizational

adaptability, encourages strong team cohesion, and proves effective in navigating change.

Nurse leaders wield significant influence in healthcare, and embracing a transformational

leadership style can profoundly impact patient care quality and the growth of nursing staff. These

leaders inspire excellence, fostering a work environment where high standards are actively

pursued. Transformational leadership in nursing involves aligning team goals with the

organizational mission, fostering a shared sense of purpose, and emphasizing the crucial role

nurses play in enhancing patient outcomes and healthcare quality. Beyond conventional

management, transformational nurse leaders actively motivate and inspire their teams (“What Is

Transformational Leadership?,” 2022). Recognizing the unique skills of each nurse,

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transformational leaders prioritize individualized consideration. They respond to their team

members' emotions, creating a supportive and empathetic work environment that positively

impacts job satisfaction and patient care.

Transformational nurse leaders recognize the critical role of collective efforts in

healthcare. They foster a sense of unity and shared responsibility among nursing staff,

contributing to a positive workplace culture. This collaborative approach paves the way for

innovation in patient care, as these leaders inspire their teams to find creative solutions to

healthcare challenges. They actively support evidence-based practices and the adoption of new

technologies, promoting continuous improvements in patient outcomes. Adaptability and change

management are essential skills and they excel at guiding their teams through reforms, policy

changes, and technological advancements, helping staff adapt to new practices while maintaining

a focus on delivering optimal patient care.

Advocacy for patients and staff stands as a pivotal responsibility for transformational

nurse leaders. They actively engage in promoting a patient-centered approach, advocating for

policies and practices that prioritize patient satisfaction, safety, and overall positive outcomes.

Simultaneously, transformational nurse leaders work tirelessly to create a supportive

environment for their staff, addressing concerns, fostering professional growth, and promoting a

culture that values the well-being of the healthcare team (Siangchokyoo et al., 2020). In doing

so, they contribute to a healthcare setting that not only meets the highest standards of patient care

but also cultivates a resilient and empowered nursing workforce (Hussain & Khayat, 2021).

As a registered nurse working on a women's health and maternity unit in a community

hospital, my aspiration is to evolve into a transformational leader who can effectively navigate

the unique challenges presented by limited staffing and limited resources. In my unit we serve
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low-income patients and deal with complicated family dynamics. Therefore, my individualized

plan encompasses a holistic approach, integrating educational development, cultural competence

training, enhanced communication skills, individualized patient-centered care, team building,

innovation, advocacy, community engagement, and ongoing self-reflection and feedback.

I am committed to participating in educational opportunities such as leadership

workshops and online courses. In doing this, I can bridge theoretical knowledge with practical

application in my unit by staying updated on the latest literature and seeking mentorship from

experienced leaders. Recognizing patient diversity, I can pursue cultural competence training and

build relationships with community leaders for insights into the unique needs of staff members

and the community we serve. I enjoy learning about communication and self-determination,

essential skills for transformational leadership. I will continue exploring these topics through

books, journals, and TED Talks in my free time. Initiating team activities to boost morale is an

ongoing effort, and I prioritize celebrating my coworkers' achievements. Although I am a nurse

with only a year of experience, I assist and educate students from other schools during their

clinical rotations. Additionally, I contribute to quality improvement committees, such as the "Eat,

Sleep, Console" initiative for babies in withdrawal. I advocate for our hospital through

fundraisers and community engagement, as well, enhancing my transformational leadership

skills. I use feedback from coworkers, managers, and patients to adapt my leadership approaches.

Becoming a strong nursing leader is all about honing a variety of skills. Nurses should

stay engaged in education, participate in workshops, and stay up-to-date with the latest

healthcare trends. Good communication is crucial, involving active listening, clear expression of

ideas, and creating a space where team members feel at ease sharing their perspectives (National

University, 2023). Leading by example is equally vital, as nurses should embody

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professionalism, empathy, and a commitment to patient-centered care. Another crucial element is

developing emotional intelligence, which helps leaders navigate relationships and foster a

positive work environment (National University, 2023).

Success in nursing leadership hinges on collaboration, where leaders encourage open

communication and teamwork among healthcare team members. Advocacy for patient-centered

care means prioritizing patient needs and preferences, actively seeking resources to improve the

overall patient experience. Lifelong learning is a key focus, ensuring leaders keep abreast of

evidence-based practices and support their team's professional development (“What Is

Transformational Leadership?,” 2022). Addressing conflicts proactively, leading through change,

and engaging in interdisciplinary collaboration are further aspects of effective nursing leadership

(Hussain & Khayat, 2021). Above all, effective leaders prioritize safety for both patients and

staff, fostering a culture that values continuous improvement and learning from incidents and

near-misses. By embracing these steps, nurses can develop the skills needed to thrive as leaders

in the ever-evolving field of healthcare.

In healthcare, lifelong learning is crucial for nurses to adapt and excel. Transformational

leadership principles encourage a mindset of continuous improvement, emphasizing that every

experience is a chance to grow (Siangchokyoo et al., 2020). This may involve pursuing

certifications or attending workshops to contribute to improved patient outcomes. Engaging in

collaborative projects and participating in multidisciplinary conferences broadens knowledge and

enhances teamwork. Inspiration and motivation from transformational leaders drive teams to

exceed expectations (“What Is Transformational Leadership?,” 2022; Collins et al., 2020).

Nurses can apply this by setting ambitious yet achievable development goals, whether in

leadership, research, or specialization. Intellectual stimulation is encouraged in transformational

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leadership, promoting critical thinking and innovation for the sake of lifelong learning

(Siangchokyoo et al., 2020).

As a women's health/maternity nurse, I'm committed to promoting patient education

programs because I firmly believe that an informed patient is an empowered one. This includes

covering aspects like health conditions, treatment options, and self-management strategies to

encourage active participation in their care. Following a transformational leadership approach, I

address social determinants of health, considering factors like socioeconomic considerations and

access to resources. This comprehensive approach allows me to advocate for maternity patients,

taking into account not just their immediate healthcare needs but also broader factors influencing

their maternity experiences. I actively advocate for the rights of maternity patients while

ensuring our healthcare team fosters a culture of responsibility, safeguarding the confidentiality,

privacy, and dignity of women.

In my approach to transforming bedside nursing, I draw inspiration from foundational

nursing theories and leadership principles. By integrating these into my practice, I aim to blend

the roles of nurse leader and patient advocate. The goal is to uplift patient care, inspire

colleagues, and create an environment that puts each patient's unique needs first (Collins et al.,

2020). Taking a cue from Jean Watson's Theory of Human Caring, my focus is on establishing

authentic connections through therapeutic communication and empathetic engagement,

emphasizing the holistic nature of patient care (Watson & Woodward, 2010). This philosophy

comes to life through bedside rounds that prioritize the overall well-being of the patient.

As a patient advocate, I empower patients through education initiatives, developing clear

and understandable materials that encourage active involvement in their care. Upholding ethical

standards is crucial in patient advocacy, and I stay committed to staying informed about ethical
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standards in nursing and healthcare. Advocating for patients' rights and ensuring ethical

principles guide my decisions allows me to navigate ethical challenges transparently and with

integrity. My approach involves evidence-based practices, staying updated on the latest research

findings, and actively seeking opportunities to enhance bedside care. Effective communication is

key, fostering an environment where open communication is valued. Collaborating with

healthcare professionals from different disciplines, I work towards providing comprehensive and

coordinated patient care. Regular self-reflection and a commitment to continuous improvement

contribute to a culture of excellence at the bedside, inspiring colleagues to embrace a similar

mindset. Therefore, by incorporating nursing theories, leadership principles, patient advocacy,

evidence-based practices, and effective communication into my practice, I strive to transform

bedside nursing into a space that prioritizes each patient's individual needs, ultimately

contributing to a culture of excellence in my healthcare setting.

The transformational leadership style extends its impact to administrators by emphasizing

inspiration, motivation, and a shared vision for a positive work environment (Western Governors

University, 2023). This involves bringing healthcare professionals and administrators together

toward common goals, promoting focused communication, and encouraging purpose-driven

collaboration. Clear and transparent communication is key, ensuring efficient sharing of

information across the healthcare team and building a climate of trust and open dialogue (Collins

et al., 2020). Recognizing and appreciating the unique skills and perspectives of each

interdisciplinary team and team member is essential. It creates an environment where both

administrators and healthcare professionals feel valued, fostering open communication and a

collaborative work culture. Engaged healthcare professionals actively participate in team

discussions, share innovative ideas, and collaborate effectively with administrators, contributing
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to a collaborative culture and improved patient outcomes (Hussain & Khayat, 2021; Western

Governors University, 2023). Strong relationships facilitate open communication, making it

easier to address challenges, share insights, and collaborate on strategic initiatives (“What Is

Transformational Leadership?,” 2022). Commitment to transformational leadership enhances

communication and collaboration (Western Governors University, 2023), benefiting patient

outcomes and the overall effectiveness of the healthcare organization.

Leadership significantly influences care assessment and accreditation processes,

particularly in maternity nursing, encompassing structure, process, and outcomes.

Well-organized maternity units are essential for excellent care. Transformational leaders play a

key role by implementing clear guidelines, ensuring consistent procedures, and introducing

regular training programs for evidence-based practices (Hussain & Khayat, 2021). They enhance

efficiency and teamwork through interdisciplinary rounds, involving collaboration among nurses,

lactation consultants, and pediatricians for comprehensive maternity care. Initiatives to improve

communication with new mothers ensure patient-centered care. These leaders set high standards,

promoting excellence and ensuring a positive experience for both mothers and babies. Initiatives

focusing on patient education contribute to optimal outcomes, including maternity self-care and

monitoring key indicators. Transformational leadership is crucial for accreditation, involving

regular training sessions on accreditation importance and specific maternity care standards.

Ongoing assessments and improvements tailored to maternity nursing challenges create a culture

of high-quality care for new mothers and their babies.

In my future as a nursing leader, I aim to benefit my unit, serve as a nurse preceptor, and

contribute to nursing education. Guided by transformational leadership principles, I aspire to

create positive environments with a meaningful impact. I plan to attain certification in

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maternal-newborn nursing, using transformational leadership to inspire a shared vision for

optimal outcomes. This includes advocating for evidence-based practices, enhancing prenatal

education, and supporting policies for quality maternal care, ensuring recognition of each

family's unique needs. As a nurse preceptor, I will employ transformational leadership to mentor

new nurses, tailoring guidance to their strengths and needs for professional growth. Advocacy

extends to fostering a supportive work environment, empowering nurses to voice concerns and

contribute to decision-making. I can encourage ongoing education for the nursing team through

initiatives like journal clubs. In my future role as a nurse educator, I will use transformational

leadership to inspire nursing students, encouraging critical thinking and innovation in a learning

environment that values continuous improvement. Advocacy here involves ensuring meaningful

and inclusive learning experiences for students and advocating for policies that recognize and

elevate nurses' contributions to healthcare. Advocacy takes a dual focus here: for students, I will

ensure their learning experiences are meaningful and inclusive; for the profession, I will

advocate for policies recognizing and elevating nurses' contributions to healthcare.

In conclusion, my future goals as a nursing leader span maternal and child health, nurse

preceptorship, and nurse education. Guided by transformational leadership principles, I aim to

inspire, motivate, and create positive environments. Advocacy, integral to each role, ensures I

meet the needs of patients and students, contributing to the betterment of healthcare and the

nursing profession. Through the amalgamation of transformational leadership and advocacy, I

aspire to leave a lasting impact on the maternal and child health landscape and contribute to the

development of future nursing professionals.

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References

Collins, E., Owen, P., Digan, J., & Dunn, F. (2020). Applying transformational leadership in

nursing practice. Nurs Stand, 35(5), 59-66.

Hussain, M. K., & Khayat, R. A. M. (2021). The impact of transformational leadership on job

satisfaction and organisational commitment among hospital staff: a systematic review.

Journal of Health Management, 23(4), 614-630.

National University. (2023). What is transformational leadership? National University.

https://www.nu.edu/blog/what-is-transformational-leadership/

Siangchokyoo, N., Klinger, R. L., & Campion, E. D. (2020). Follower transformation as the

linchpin of transformational leadership theory: A systematic review and future research

agenda. The Leadership Quarterly, 31(1), 101341.

Watson, J., & Woodward, T. K. (2010). Jean Watson’s theory of human caring. Nursing theories

and nursing practice, 3, 351-369.’

Western Governors University. (2023). A guide to Transformational leadership. Business.

https://www.wgu.edu/blog/guide-transformational-leadership2008.html#close

What Is Transformational Leadership? (2022). Career Development.

https://www.indeed.com/career-advice/career-development/transformational-leadership