Women and power in nursing

Power is inherent in all relationships and is subject to social and political amendment. In addition social relationships can be and are dynamic, flexible, variable and may provide unlimited possibilities for influencing the course of events in the workplace. Because of such potential, an element of competitiveness amongst leaders (and thus nurse managers) for the retention of their power base is created. Since the potential for power struggles is a realistic possibility the author contends that nurse managers need to acquaint themselves with political game playing techniques and ways of enhancing their social rank on an institution wide basis. This could be effected by concerted efforts to act in relation to others and by equipping themselves with more than basic preparation in administration and management. Nurses should use their individual and collective power, influence and authority to ensure that the nursing profession may prosper and grow. Contrary to the view that women are the weaker sex, numerically they dominate the nursing profession in South Africa. They should therefore regard the reshaping of their future role and status as a responsibility, a privilege and a challenge to the power inherent in them.