Introduction
Nursing has unique demands due to the nature and needs of its services and workers respectively. Even though, some people may argue that nurses are not supposed to go on strike since it may risk the quality of the services they provide (Malloch, 2012). Nurses are human beings and deserve to be regarded the way the members of other professions are treated. This motivated them to join professional bodies that will advocate for their consideration as human beings who deserve better pays and good working environment.
Leadership Traits
Nursing is more than an ordinary profession; it is a calling to protect any human life at all costs. It is necessary to note that although nurses have to champion for their rights on the streets, they do this to ensure their delivery of services is not compromised (Sullivan, 2012). Secondly, nurses are leaders by their nature so they want to see others follow them. Their advocacy is primarily focussed on providing quality services to the population. Consequently, they must receive high salaries and be provided with good working conditions.
Thirdly, nurses aspire to develop their skills and talents to meet the ever soaring demand for quality services (Finkelman, 2011). They desire to gain new knowledge, refresh the existing skills and learn how to handle new challenges brought by changes in lifestyle. They have a compassionate and energetic personality that is essential for good leadership. They are always positive even when there is no hope of achieving the targeted results. Lastly, they take considerable risks while providing their services. This is a quality of a good leader, who puts the society’s interest first.
Formal and Informal Power and Leadership
Formal power is derived from the organization’s structure and policies. These are laid down procedures that ensure all duties are performed according to the needs (Weiss, 2009). Power and authority are determined by an individual’s job title, role, relationships between departments and functions to be performed by workers in different sections. Those in high ranking positions have more power than their subordinates.
On the other hand, informal power is the ability to control and influence other people to follow a specific view, perception, trend or move towards a given direction (Malloch, 2012). It is attained through experience and knowledge regarding various issues. This power is more influential than formal power since it shapes and determines the public’s perception of various issues.
Importance of Political Action Awareness of Nurse Leaders
Nursing requires leaders who can stand tall and demand the fulfilment of their recommendations to facilitate effective service delivery. Nurse leaders must be aware of various protocols, procedures and requirements for demanding their rights in order to ensure their needs are fulfilled (Sullivan, 2012). They must know these aspects to ensure they obey the laws governing industrial actions and consumer protection and at the same time abide by their constitutional laws. This ensures they follow proper channels while presenting their views to the concerned government departments.
Professional Organizations and Awareness of Political Actions
All professions have organizations that champion for their rights. Nurse leaders must ensure they form organizations that are recognized by their states and members. They must register them and seek membership in other related organizations (Finkelman 2011). This will ensure there is communication between their organization and other related groups. In addition, nurse leaders must be selected from other professions that have similarities like social work, law, public relations and management (Sullivan 2012). On the other hand, they may seek additional training on issues like human rights, professional laws and management to allow them to offer quality leadership services to their members.
Conclusion
Professional bodies are not only meant to push governments to address their needs but also to educate members about their responsibilities. Democracy comes with responsibilities that must be fulfilled.
References
Finkelman, A. (2011). Leadership and Management for Nurses: Core Competencies for Quality Care. New Jersey: Prentice Hall.
Malloch, K. (2012). Leadership in Nursing Practice. Massachusetts: Jones and Bartlett Learning.
Sullivan, E. (2012). Effective Leadership and Management in Nursing. New Jersey: Prentice Hall.
Weiss, S. (2009). Essentials of Nursing Leadership and Management. Philadelphia: F. A. Davis Company.