Introduction
Nurses have a chance of making a difference in the society by caring for the sick in hospitals. It is impossible to run a healthcare facility without nurses. Nurses help healthcare institutions to run smoothly and effectively. A leader is a person who is charged with the responsibility of directing or guiding a group of people with the aim of achieving a set goal (Glazer 2011). To be a good leader, one has to possess certain qualities. The following are the qualities that a good nurse leader must possess.
Effective communicator
A good nurse leader must have the ability to communicate effectively. A good nurse leader should be able to effectively communicate with patients and fellow employees. Research has shown that a leader who is able to communicate effectively is likely to be successful (Kelly & Tazbir 2012). A good leader should also be able to listen to the views of fellow employees so as to improve the performance of the organization.
Motivator
A good nurse leader should be able to motivate nurses and other employees in a healthcare facility to work harder. Motivation improves the morale of employees (Clark 2009). They will want to work hard to achieve the goals of the organization. A good nurse leader should be able to inspire the employees of the organization to give their best as they discharging their duties.
Organized
A good nurse leader should be able to effectively delegate duties. A good leader has to make choices that will have a positive impact on the organization (Kelly & Tazbir 2012).
Decisive
Leaders are responsible of making hard and timely decisions in an organization. A good nurse leader should never be afraid of making decisions. Some situations require leaders to make decisions that will have an effect on the well-being of the organization (Kelly & Tazbir 2012). It is important to have all the information needed before making any decision. A good leader should be able to stick to the decisions that he or she makes.
Visionary
A good nurse leader should be able to see into the future (Kelly & Tazbir 2012). A good leader learns from past mistakes.
A role model
People in leadership positions should act as role models to their subordinates. A good leader will practice what he or she preaches. A good leader should be able guide the employees of an organization to achieve the goals of the organization (Clark 2009). Being a good role model will help a leader to get the best from their subordinate employees.
Caring
A good nurse must be understanding and nonjudgmental. He or she should be able to empathize with patients (Kelly & Tazbir 2012). A good nurse leader should be able to relate effectively with patients and their families. A good nurse leader should interact with patients on a daily basis as this is the only way he or she can be able to improve patient care in a health care facility (Glazer 2011).
Conclusion
Healthcare institutions like all other institutions and organizations need strong leaders. These leaders should be able relate well with other employees and patients. They should be able to motivate and guide their subordinate employees to work hard so as to achieve the goals of the organization. It is also important that nurse leaders be good role models to their subordinate employees.
References
Clark, C. C. (2009). Creative nursing leadership & management. Sudbury, Mass.: Jones and Bartlett Publishers.
Glazer, G. L. (2011). Nursing leadership from the outside in. New York: Springer Pub. Co..
Kelly, P., & Tazbir, J. (2012). Essentials of nursing leadership & management (3rd. Ed.). Clifton Park, NY: Delmar.