Leadership

Case Study
Two new associate-degree graduates were hired for the pediatric unit. Both worked three 12-hour shifts a week; Jan worked the day-to-evening shift and Rosemary worked the night shift. Whenever their shifts connected, they would compare notes on their experience. Jan felt she was learning rapidly, gaining clinical skills and beginning to feel at ease with her colleagues.

Rosemary, however, still felt unsure of herself and often isolated. There have been times that she was the only registered nurse on the unit all night. The aides and LPNs were very experienced, but Rosemary feels she is not ready for that kind of responsibility. Rosemary knows she must speak to the nurse manager about this, but she’s called several times, and she’s never available. The shift assignments are left in the staff lounge by an assistant.

Questions
Your discussion post should answer the following questions in a well-constructed commentary.

To what extent is this problem due to a failure to lead? Who has failed to act?
What style of leadership was displayed by Rosemary? The nurse manager?
How effective was their leadership? What are your suggestions for Rosemary?

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Sample Answer

In this scenario, the lack of adequate communication and support for new nurses on the pediatric unit highlights a failure of leadership. Several individuals have failed to act, contributing to Rosemary’s feelings of isolation and uncertainty.

Nurse Manager’s Failure to Lead

The nurse manager bears the most significant responsibility for this situation. Their failure to be readily available for consultation and address Rosemary’s concerns demonstrates a lack of responsiveness and accountability. The nurse manager’s role is to ensure that all staff members, particularly new nurses, feel supported and have access to guidance. By failing to provide this support, the nurse manager has created an environment where Rosemary feels overwhelmed and hesitant to speak up.

Full Answer Section

Rosemary’s Leadership Style

Rosemary’s leadership style is characterized by a passive approach. She has repeatedly tried to contact the nurse manager but has been unsuccessful. Her inability to assertively address the issue has left her feeling powerless and isolated. While Rosemary’s quiet nature may be her personality, in this situation, it is preventing her from getting the support she needs.

Nurse Manager’s Ineffective Leadership

The nurse manager’s leadership style is clearly ineffective. Their absence from the unit and lack of communication with Rosemary demonstrate a lack of concern for the well-being of their staff. This hands-off approach to leadership is detrimental to the morale and productivity of the nursing team.

Suggestions for Rosemary

To improve her situation, Rosemary needs to take a more proactive approach. Here are some suggestions:

  1. Persist in contacting the nurse manager: Continue calling the nurse manager and make an effort to speak to them in person. Explain your concerns and request a meeting to discuss your needs.

  2. Seek support from colleagues: Talk to Jan or other experienced nurses about your concerns. They may be able to offer guidance and support.

  3. Document your attempts to contact the nurse manager: Keep a record of the times you have called or emailed the nurse manager. This documentation can be helpful if you need to escalate the issue to a higher authority.

  4. Consider speaking to the unit director: If the nurse manager remains unresponsive, consider contacting the unit director or another supervisor. Explain your concerns and request their assistance in addressing the situation.

  5. Advocate for yourself: Don’t hesitate to speak up for yourself and your needs. It’s your right to have a supportive and effective work environment.

By taking these steps, Rosemary can take control of her situation and ensure that she receives the support she needs to thrive in her role as a new nurse.

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