Brigstock, Tracey MA, BA, DipHealSc, RN; Dunn, Lisa MSc, BSc, RN, PGCHE, FHEA; Price, Heather MSc, BSc, RN, PGCHE; Higgins, Sally BSc, DipHE, RN; Bates, Melissa DNP, RN, CDCES
At a time of continuous advancements in healthcare, nurse leaders play a fundamental role in influencing change and driving improvement, both to enhance patient outcomes and experience and to create and sustain positive practice environments for staff. A nurse leader is defined by the American Nurses Association as “a nurse who represents the interests of the nursing profession.”1 Nurse leaders act as skilled role models who influence healthcare organizations across all levels and areas of practice, including policy development, research, and innovation, together with education and clinical practice at point of care.