Shifting the paradigm in novice nurse leadership: A discussion paper

Abstract

Objective: To justify and discuss a model of nurse leadership development that recognises the inherent leadership potential of novice nurses.

Background: Effective nurse leadership is associated with quality and safety of patient care, enhanced staff engagement, organisational efficiency, development, and adaptation to current challenges. Extensive research into nurse leadership has produced a range of evidence-based theoretical frameworks that integrate significant leader characteristics with practice implications. However, few studies encompass inherent leadership characteristics and practice capabilities of novice nurses within a leadership development framework.

Methodology: A review of current academic literature on novice nurse practice and development was undertaken to inform selected themes and discussion.

Discussion: This paper discusses novice nurse leadership development as represented by a novel theoretical framework that places novice nurses within the context of their emerging practice. An exploration of four core dimensions, 1) leading self, 2) engaging others, 3) shaping teams, and 4) embracing innovation, presents opportunities for development within university and workplace learning contexts.

Conclusion: This paper offers a focused and novel framework for developing novice nurse leadership skills. This approach represents a change from traditional paradigms that equate leadership development with seniority.

Implications for research, policy, and practice: This discussion contributes to a wider discussion on the preparation of the nursing workforce for future practice in an environment that is characterised by complex healthcare systems and workforce challenges. Our framework can be used to reflect on current novice nurse leader development in universities and workplaces, and signals avenues for research of current practice areas.