As a charge nurse, one is in a key role to make health care work for everyone patients, families, physicians, nurses, and all the many other people who are involved in the care and healing of patients. The word that may be unexpected is Leader. Caregiver might be the descriptive word when one thinks of a charge nurse, but leader is what they really are. A great charge nurse has to do with being a good leader. A great charge nurse leads a healthcare team and its individuals to manage the care of patients therapeutically. Leadership is the key to molding a group of individuals into an effective team. If led well, the team can perform the many tasks and responsibilities required for the care of patients more effectively. A good leader can transform a list of tasks into a coordinated approach to healing.
Cathy Leary hold a BA is Psychology, MS in Nursing Administration, and a nursing diploma. She is certified as an Advanced Nursing Administrator. She has served in many nursing roles from bedside nurse to chief operating officer in the acute care setting. Experience has taught her that effective charge nurses and other nurse leaders are the key to high quality healthcare. Scott Allen is a PhD candidate in Leadership and Change. He holds a BS in Family Social Sciences and a MA in Human Resources Development. His area of study is leadership development and he has worked in higher education and healthcare. Scott lives in Cleveland, Ohio and is involved in the American Society for Training & Development, the Organization Development Connection and Leadershape.
Cathy Leary holds a B.A. in psychology, an M.S. in nursing administration, and a nursing diploma. She is certified as an advanced nursing administrator. Scott Allen is a Ph.D. candidate in leadership and change. He is involved in the American Society for Training & Development, the Organization Development Connection, and Leadershape.