Leadership in Correctional Nursing: The First Step

Correctional nurses fulfill many roles in the provision of health care to incarcerated individuals. The role most readily visible is health care provider, but today's nurses are also expected to fill a variety of different leadership roles. Leadership is recognized as a fundamental characteristic of nursing by the nursing organizations that set professional standards. Possessing leadership skills is thus vital to the professional correctional nurse. The first step in developing leadership skills requires introspection and contemplation. Today's nursing leaders must understand and express their core values and beliefs if they want to establish and enhance their credibility. This article explores personal inspiration and motivation and guides nurses through the process of articulating their beliefs and values to their constituents in the form of a Personal Professional Philosophy Statement.