The new head nurse on G Unit has been the subject of a great deal ...

[bucstennis@aim.com]

The new head nurse on G Unit has been the subject of a great deal of discussion and complaining during breaks. She is a competent nurse of tremendous integrity with approximately 30 years' experience.
 
  Her predominant method of problem solving and communication is through meetings, which can go over the allotted time. The staff may:
 
  a. Be represented by a high number of Baby Boomers.
  b. Be presenting different generational values and attitudes than the head nurse.
  c. Be unresponsive to her transactional leadership style.
  d. Want a leader rather than a manager.

Question 2

While explaining the importance of developing leadership skills among nurses to a group of first-year nursing students, Natalie, a nursing unit manager, emphasizes that:
 
  a. Most nurses are not expected to assume leadership roles.
  b. The role of nurse leadership is only at the bedside, ensuring that patient care is performed according to established standards.
  c. Only individuals in formal leadership roles are expected to be leaders.
  d. The public depends on nurses to assume leadership in moving consumer advocacy concerns forward.

[welcom1000]

Answer to Question 1

ANS: B
Leaders who come out of the Baby Boomer generation may be more comfortable with collective action than followers who come out of the Emerging Workforce generation, who are more comfortable with interactions if they are seen as having value for them and with activities if they are seen as having benefit. A group that is highly weighted toward the Emerging Workforce generation may find the approach of a leader who is part of the Baby Boomer generation frustrating and may not understand the meaning or value of the meetings.

Answer to Question 2

ANS: D
The complexity of nursing and the healthcare environment demands that all nurses assume roles of manager, leader, and follower, depending on the situation. Nurses are involved in providing leadership in direct patient care, in leading others at a unit or organizational level, in moving the profession forward, and in participating in legislative and policy arenas. Consumers depend on nursing leadership to carry the healthcare agenda forward.