Leadership:
NURS 490 Nursing Leadership
This course focused on utilizing strategies from leadership, management, systems, and change theories to facilitate professional nursing practice. Nurse as a leader in the health care system was the focus of this class. I learned the impact and interdependence of managerial behavior, proactive administrative decisions, professional image, and case management in nursing practice. Exploration of various leadership styles helped me to discover my strengths and prepared me to take on leadership roles.
Throughout the class, I explored nursing leadership from various angles. I learned about management roles through my superior's experience. I had the opportunity to interview my immediate director, her leadership style, skills, and personal traits. I examined the impact of leadership on quality outcomes and ways to prevent hospital-acquired complications. I learned about healthcare safety concerns and safety goals and sought ways to facilitate meaningful change. I analyzed the problem within the business model and looked for solutions. I worked independently and collaborated with classmates. I shared my views and explored others' perspectives.
One of the assignments during the course was a team project which focused on healthcare safety issues. Our group was challenged to discuss frequently detected safety concerns, identify the focus problem relatable to the majority, and explore several resolutions. In the open discussion, each has chosen the part to complete. We ensured everyone had the opportunity and time to finish their consecutive segment before another person could continue. I took the initiative to start the paper, describe the safety concern and safety goal and examine the data relevant to the issue. In addition, I provided the "fishbone" diagram with a comprehensive analysis. Also, I worked tightly with my classmates to find updated research pertinent to our problem.
To ensure the mutual success of our project, we helped each other and brainstormed ideas, utilized timely communication among the group, and provided honest and constructive feedback. Each person honored responsibility and executed their section at high standards.
This team project taught me to stay flexible and open-minded and trust colleagues' accountability bonded only through the web space. I learned to recognize contrasting perspectives and value various ideas. This project enhanced my communication skills: I learned to convey constructive messages without offending my peers.
Another assignment I consider essential for my professional growth was "Business Case Analysis." In this project, I examined problematic situation within healthcare related to nursing leadership and sought sound decisions. To successfully resolve the issue, I envisioned myself as the true leader of the organization and considered all possible solutions. I researched the problem to enhance my knowledge and find practical strategies. It helped me cultivate an objective mindset to strengthen the organization and optimize the resources. I enjoyed that challenge!
Future Goals
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I strongly desire to pursue leadership, and each assignment facilitated my professional growth as a future nurse leader. My immediate goal after graduation is to acquire a charge nurse position within my department; however, I will seek other opportunities to climb the career ladder. For now, I am a chair of the shared governance council in my hospital and truly enjoy that leadership experience. I do not doubt that the knowledge I have received through this course will help me continue growing professional success.