The critical need for well-prepared direct practice, managerial and administrative nursing leaders emanates from numerous dynamics within healthcare, including: evolving informational technologies, complex financing models, and a shrinking workforce. The purpose of this study was a) to assess perceptions of leadership roles and b) to provide relevant, application-based administrative content to emerging leaders as a means to begin implementation of a succession planning program. 

Conceptual/theoretical framework

According to Lombardi (2005), today’s healthcare leaders need practical strategies and open dialogue to pursue performance excellence in patient care. Magnet studies indicate essential nurse leader traits- visible, people-oriented, and empowering-to create highly supportive and collaborative environments. Bolton and Roy (2004) affirm that succession planning is a key business strategy given the impending retirement of experienced nurses. Succession planning is a means to insure there will be ready leaders to fill positions as vacancies occur. 

Methods

As part of a larger study on nurse retention, a customized four-day Leadership Academy titled “How to Inspire Others”was provided to emerging nurse leaders in a Midwestern community hospital. Topics during the four day intensives included 1) Leadership theory, 2) Emotional intelligence, 3) Human Resource Management, and 4) People, Patients and Performance. Participants were given interactive, application based case studies from the learning objectives as a capstone session to end the program. This descriptive study utilized a pre/post assessment survey on How to Inspire Others to evaluate learning. 

Major Findings/Conclusion

Participants (n=16) reported an increased understanding of leadership styles and skills needed for people management on a 4 point Likert scale (2.62=preprogram; 3.17=postprogram).  Findings indicate a need for nurse managers to maintain and demonstrate current knowledge to function in today’s healthcare environment. Although this project is currently in its last year of implementation, there is another two years of evaluation for participants to demonstrate effective leadership attributes.

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