The Dunning-Kruger effect (Dunning, 2011), prevalent in American culture, reflects a pattern of over-inflated self-assessments prior to attending an educational event; subsequently, after attending a class or obtaining knowledge, self-assessment drops significantly. As new knowledge integrates into practice, self-assessment scores rise. Of great interest, the results of this study did not endorse the Dunning-Kruger effect. Nurse leaders assessed their ethical leadership abilities even higher upon completion of an ethical leadership class (Summer/Fall 2017). Participants endorsed 6 of the 11 questions on the Ethical Leadership Self-Assessment (ELSA), at “Frequently” or “Almost Always” 90% or higher even prior to attending the ethical leadership training. These scores maintained, and even rose immediately after training. Additionally, comparing increase, decrease, or no change for each answer between pre-training and post-training found statistical significance. “When I need advice on an ethical issue, I refer to published sources” (p = 0.004) and question 8 “When making important decisions, I involve those who will be most affected” (p = 0.01) these noted changes exhibit the power of nurse leaders sharing best practice. Several nurse leaders reported as they discussed their practice in training it promoted their ability to recall initiatives each had implemented. Nurse leaders were able to remember what they knew, yet had forgotten.
This study supports there are high ethical standards reflected in the nursing profession. It is noteworthy, nurse leaders’ benefit from collaboration and sharing best practice. Teaching ethical leadership and decision-making supports nurse leadership provides safe care and elevates professional standards.