WEEK 2 DISCUSSION : CLASS: LEADERSHIP IN A DIVERSE SOCIETY
Questions 1
Using the Online Library or the Internet, research about power sources for a nurse leader. Based on your understanding, answer the following questions:
- In your opinion, what are the three most important power sources for a nurse leader? Why?
- How are they best used in a leadership role? Describe.
- What sources of power do you see most often displayed in your work environment? Why?
TEXTBOOK: Murray, E. (2017). Nursing leadership and management for patient safety and quality care with Davis Plus. F. A. Davis. ISBN: 9780803630215
READING: Theories and Principles of Nursing Leadership and Management
- Ethical and Legal Aspects
- Critical Thinking and Decision Making
MUST CITE AND REFERENCE, PROOFREAD AND SPELLCHECK !!!!
Expert Solution Preview
Introduction: In the field of nursing, leadership plays a crucial role in ensuring the quality of care provided to patients. Among the various aspects of leadership, power sources hold significant importance. This discussion focuses on identifying the three most important power sources for a nurse leader, their best use in a leadership role, and the sources of power commonly displayed in a typical work environment.
1. In your opinion, what are the three most important power sources for a nurse leader? Why?
The three most important power sources for a nurse leader are referent power, expert power, and legitimate power. Referent power, also known as the power of charisma, arises from the respect, admiration, and trust gained by a leader through their personality, behavior, and relationships with others. Expert power, derived from the knowledge, skills, and experience possessed by the leader, enables them to influence and guide others in decision-making and problem-solving. Legitimate power, based on the position held by the leader within the organizational hierarchy, gives them the authority to make decisions and direct others.
2. How are they best used in a leadership role? Describe.
The effective use of these power sources in a leadership role depends on the situation and the individuals involved. Referent power can be used to inspire and motivate others towards a common goal or vision, by building relationships based on trust and mutual respect. Expert power can be used to guide and mentor others, by sharing knowledge and expertise, and encouraging critical thinking and decision-making. Legitimate power can be used to set clear expectations, delegate tasks, and enforce rules and regulations, by communicating with transparency and consistency.
3. What sources of power do you see most often displayed in your work environment? Why?
In my work environment, I see legitimate power and expert power being displayed most frequently by nurse leaders. From the perspective of legitimate power, nurse leaders hold the authority to assign tasks, enforce policies, and make decisions related to patient care. They also exhibit expert power, by sharing their knowledge and expertise with junior staff, and managing and coordinating the workflow. Overall, I believe that a balance of all three sources of power is necessary for effective nursing leadership, to ensure optimal patient outcomes and staff satisfaction.
