Role Of A Shift Leadership Role

Although there are limited studies on the shift leader role, studies agree it is a temporary managerial role. Which requires management and leadership skills for enhanced productivity and results (Sellgren, Ekvall &Tomson, 2006)

. This essay will discuss the duties of a shift leader and skills necessary for the successful running of a hospital ward; and explore challenges from the perspective of a newly qualified nurse.

Being a newly qualified staff nurse can be a daunting experience, adjusting to being in control and responsible for the care patients receive; And ensuring high quality care is delivered at all times has been reported a stressful period for nurses (Brown & Edelman, 2000). Many nurses report the pressure of their responsibilities is magnified by the constant worry of losing their nursing registration should their practice be called into question (Whitehead 2001). Nurses should be supported through this transition period however it is inevitable and sometimes uncontrollable that at some point the newly qualified staff nurse will need to take lead of a shift. Because of this The United Kingdom Central Council's saw fit to re design nursing education in the late 90’s to ensure nurses are educated in both giving and directing care (UKCC, 1986); Incorporating the education of management and leadership skills into nursing education.

The shift leader is required to be aware of all patient care, organize staff, assist staff and complete tasks within deadlines (Krugman & Smith, 2003). To accomplish these the nurse needs to possess time management skills, be able to prioritize work considering multidisciplinary teams, be able to delegate, encourage team work, be able to assist staff when needed, and have positive communicat...

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...lusion management and leadership skills aids nurses greatly in managing staff and patients. Nurses feel the shift leader role is a highly responsible role for the care of patients and strict control is a major factor in the role (Goldblatt, Granot, Admi & Drach-Zahavy, 2008).

Given the complexities of a hospital ward, key to running it efficiently and successfully is good leadership qualities. This skill seems to be more effective with staff morale, time management efficiency and the overall well running of the ward. Leadership is a key skill to a more fruitful balanced ward where patients wellbeing is at the centre (Borbasi and Gaston, 2002). Leaders should be able to encourage and support staff to test new skills in a safe environment (West-Burnham,1997).Nurses that apply management and leadership skills together win the respect of their colleagues (Bondas, 2006).