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

During a recent CACCN board meeting, directors were challenged with developing an approach to a difficult case scenario. In a situation in which a group of nurses have angered some of the other nurses who work in the same unit, the directors were asked to identify core problems and suggest possible solutions and potential barriers to this problem. The perception that patient care is hampered, poor morale and job satisfaction as well as the lack of leadership and poor communication were identified as the core problems in the scenario that was presented. A number of possible solutions and the associated strengths and weaknesses, as well as the barriers to implementing the solutions were identified. In summary, critical care nurses must continue to advocate and lead the way toward strong leadership, modeling of appropriate behaviour and effective communication--all of which contribute to stronger team development and, ultimately, result in better, safer patient care.