Developing leadership skills in critical care nurses: a case scenario--part one

During a recent CACCN board meeting, directors were challenged with developing an approach to a difficult case scenario. In a situation where inappropriate communication toward a new nurse was observed and reported directly to the charge nurse, participants identified that before responding, the charge nurse should seek out additional information to identify the problems causing the behaviour. Possible core problems included lack of clarity around the roles and responsibilities, plus the lack of training on preceptorship and the principles of effective communication. Solutions are proposed, along with associated strengths, weaknesses and barriers to implementation. In summary, nurses have much to gain from augmenting their leadership skills.