Exploring leadership effectiveness: nurses as clinical leaders in the NHS

Abstract

Purpose – The purpose of this paper is to explore leadership effectiveness, with reference to nurses in the UK National Health Service (NHS).

Design/methodology/approach – The paper is literature based. It explores the history and policy background to nurse leadership. It reviews a range of approaches to leadership and applies the theoretical findings to the case study of nurse leaders

Findings – The paper suggests there are several inter-related aspects to consider in relation to developing the effectiveness of nurse leaders – these may be grouped around: developing core competencies; developing emotional intelligence; developing readiness and motivation; developing contextual sensitivity; and developing clinical innovation and change.

Practical implications – The paper discusses the implications of the findings for the leadership development of nurses and makes recommendations.

Originality/value – The paper attempts to incorporate the insights from a variety of different approaches to leadership and apply them to nurse leaders in the UK NHS.