The Hawai‘i State Center for Nursing is pleased to report on the success of the Nurse Leadership Program. Since its inception in April of 2007, 479 charge nurses from across the State have attended. The Program consists of a two-day facilitated workshop which focuses collaborative and values based leadership. Small group work emphasizes strategies for communication, conflict resolution and working in teams. A scenarios-based approach ensures that the skills learned are applicable to the practice environment of the participants. An e-mentoring component facilitates the ongoing application of skills and knowledge in the practice setting.
The Environment/Retention Collaborative of the Center developed and sponsored this program specifically for staff nurses who are in the charge nurse role because it is well known that front line leaders have a direct impact on the work environment. Charge nurses play a key role in professional practice in their units or departments and have the potential to enhance patient care, peer relationships, and team functioning. In addition, one of the key factors in nurse retention is providing opportunities for professional growth.
The Program was developed in collaboration with Donna Ching, PhD and is facilitated by Alison Zecha. The first pilot program was conducted in April, 2007 for 38 staff nurses from ten hospitals throughout the state. Participant feedback enabled the planning committee and the facilitators make modifications which have enhanced the program.
Some comments have proven to be highly effective in providing immediate feedback to the planners. An example is as follows:
“When you go to the same place every day, it is easy to see it as just a job--educational opportunities like this make it more of a ‘career’ or a ‘profession’—great to grow and learn.”
“I enjoyed this leadership program very much. Not only can you use this information individually but also as a group….The facilitator made this processes eye opening and fun. I'm looking forward to the follow-up. Mahalo.”
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