Applying transformational leadership in nursing through the lens of Kouzes and Posner leadership practices

Abstract

Healthcare institutions function in a dynamic, complex, and uncertain environment. Current research across the globe reveals there is a need to develop an integrated leadership process in healthcare delivery systems. Nurses make up the largest component of the healthcare workforce and thus need strong and effective leadership. The nursing profession requires leaders not only at the top management level but also at the bedside to contribute to patient safety and high quality of care. Transformational leadership is viewed by scholars as an effective leadership style and provides a vehicle for rethinking the definitions of leadership. The Kouzes and Posner leadership practices which are grounded on moral foundations of transformational leadership consist of five components. They are model the way, inspire a shared vision, challenge the process, enable others to act, and encourage the heart. The practices suggest that even though these five components are dependent, they are intertwined to yield a performance that is beyond expectations. This paper presents transformational leadership in nursing through the lens of Kouzes and Posner five practices of leadership. The five practices of exemplary leadership empower nurse leaders to implement change effectively and develop an effective nursing workforce.