Nicole Leftenant

NUR4827

Dr. Sorrentino

Course Reflection

1. What were the most valuable concepts you learned and how will you apply them to your practice? 
   1. The most valuable concepts that I learned during this course were how to bring about change in the workplace in a positive way. Also, that communication and collaboration between leadership and staff are essential to create a positive work environment where nursing staff feels they are treated equally and are appreciated. I’ve also learned that there are ways to change a negative work environment and encourage staff to work together and not burn out. Leadership isn’t just a position of power or authority; the most important role of a leader is advocacy for those who work with and for them.
2. How did this course assist you in thinking about becoming a better leader or being a leader in the future?
   1. Although I am not currently a leader, this course has assisted me in considering becoming a leader in the future. Previously, the thought of being a leader on a nursing unit sounded terrible to me. That was because I didn’t understand the true role of a leader in nursing. Now that I have gained a better understanding of what a leader means in the nursing role, I feel that I can adequately fulfill that position and perhaps use my skills in a positive way.
3. Of the Four Types of Leaders, which do you most identify with and why?
   1. Of the four types of leaders, the one that I most identify with is the transformational leader. This leader brings about positivity and motivation for change in the workplace. This leader includes the team in changes and takes others’ opinions into consideration. If/when I am a leader, I will always take into consideration the opinions of those who the change will affect the most. It is essential that employees feel that they are a part of the team and the decision-making process in order to ensure they are okay with and comply with the necessary steps for the change. Positivity, motivation, all with an energetic approach is a great way for a leader to improve morale in a nursing unit.
4. How did the coursework change your perception of the personnel around you in leadership roles?
   1. This course has made me realize when there is good leadership and not-so-good leadership in my workplace. Luckily, my nurse manager and director are very involved with the staff, even helping us do tasks and interventions at times such as passing medications and rounding on patients. I find the more we interact with the leadership, the more they see what we are dealing with daily, and they want to help and make changes to improve the work environment. This course has also helped me understand some of the struggles they may deal with as leaders and the difficulties that may come along with being a leader in the workplace.