Shared governance--nurses making a difference

This paper aims to describe how shared governance can be successfully integrated into existing management structures in a large medical directorate. It will show how the shared governance philosophy can lead to the creation of a culture where nurses feel important and valued and also consider its use as a foundation for the implementation of the nursing strategy.

The hospital adopted shared governance in 1995 with the setting up of councils led by staff nurses. Shared governance advocates claim it broadens involvement of clinically-based nurses in the process of change through devolved decision-making thereby enhancing clinical practice and increasing staff moral and self-esteem. Key issues Shared governance is a cultural change that will develop the leadership and management skills of all grades of staff. Shared governance is not a quick fix for the profession; involvement of all staff needs time, persistence, determination and a strong commitment to training and development.

The national nursing strategy puts nurses in a position to positively influence health care for the advantage of patients, however, for nurses to grasp this opportunity cultural change is required. This practical example of shared governance demonstrates how it can be used to create a proactive culture, focused on improving patient care. The nurturing and developing of clinically-based nurses provides them with the knowledge and skills to challenge the status quo and lead change. Thus, shared governance is an excellent foundation from which to develop the nursing strategy.