5 Essential Leadership Attributes for Nurses

Billions around the world depend on nurses for their well being. They are true heroes who selflessly put themselves on the line to care for us when we are at our most vulnerable states. We saw a glimpse of this during the height of COVID-19 when nurses risked their lives (and over 900 in the U.S. lost theirs) to care for those in need. When our health is in jeopardy, nurses are the first to respond.

When a professional holds someone’s life in their hands; when they have to make decisions in a complex environment; they are undoubtedly leaders that influence the entire world. It’s because of these high stakes and dependency on health professionals that they have a moral obligation to continue honing down their leadership skills to give their best for the community. 

As a nurse becomes a better leader, they become better at their responsibilities. Their nursing practice improves. The concept of emotional intelligence is an integral part of this. They can maneuver in a high-paced world, making effective decisions and creating an environment where patients can feel safe, comfortable, and trust that their health is in the best hands.

With these five leadership traits, nurses, nurse managers, and nursing leadership as whole can become more effective and make an impact.

1. A Sense for Vision

No matter where we are in the hierarchy, all nurses workers should have a sense of vision within their responsibility.  

While a hospital may have their own vision, a nurse can adopt a complementary vision that aligns with themselves and their unique role. But vision isn't just about a statement or outlook in life. It's also about having a purpose in everything we do. 

When a nurse meets a patient for the first time, they should have a vision for the outcome they expect by the end of the stay. Whether it’s recognizing possible complications or creating an encouraging environment to lift the mood in the room, it all starts with intentionality. Vision is about the ability to comprehend the present and anticipate the future.  

2. Problem-Solving Skills

Critical thinking is an essential trait that could mean life and death for a patient. A nurse that continuously grows in the area of finding creative solutions to complex problems can change lives. 

When we think out of the box and open our minds to all scenarios and solutions, we can identify the best strategies for each situation.

3. A High E.Q.

Nurses face insurmountable challenges with stress, high-pressure environments, fast-paced work, difficult people, complications, and more. Having a strong emotional intelligence leads to effective leadership, and makes all the difference.

It’s important to go beyond emotions and to be able to think clearly and communicate effectively with those around us. An emotionally intelligent nurse does not about subduing their emotions but facilitates them. Self-regulation means that instead of your emotions at the driver’s seat, it’s you. 

4. Extraordinary Standards

The culture in a hospital all depends on the leadership. When nurses put their integrity, character, and passion for excellence as a priority, they set the tone for everyone in the building. Nurse leaders set the tone for

 High standards create a healthy work environment, increase the quality of care, and provide satisfaction for patients.

5. Teachable Attitudes

Everyone has something to learn. The minute we decide to stop learning, we regress. When nurses have the humility to never stop learning, they continue to add value to their patients and professionals around them. A nurse manager skilled in conflict resolution often has a teachable attitude that they apply in those situations.

A teachable nurse listens to their colleagues, to those in authority, and their patients. In everything they do, they can learn and implement it to create a better experience. This type of relationship management makes for a better work environment, better leadership style, and an ability to understand your teammates motives.

Nurses are true heroes in our society. They are also leaders in healthcare. With these attributes and increased self awareness, Nurses can continue to grow and provide exceptional care.