Balancing Authority and Collaboration Essay

Introduction

As a team leader in a healthcare setting with a licensed practical nurse/licensed vocational nurse (LPN/LVN) and a nursing assistant under your supervision, it is crucial to adopt effective leadership styles to maximize team efficiency and ensure the best patient care. In this essay, we will explore the appropriate leadership styles (authoritative, democratic, or laissez-faire) to use with each team member, considering the characteristics and dynamics of the team. Additionally, we will discuss whether it is justified to use a single leadership style for all team members and how leadership style may need to adapt during emergency situations.

Leadership Styles for LPN/LVN:

The LPN/LVN, being a seasoned and reliable team member, may respond well to a democratic leadership style. This style involves collaborative decision-making, where the leader seeks input from team members before making decisions. Given the LPN/LVN’s experience, they can provide valuable insights and suggestions that can enhance patient care outcomes (Northouse, 2018). Encouraging their active participation in decision-making processes can boost morale and foster a sense of ownership within the team.

Leadership Styles for the Nursing Assistant:

The nursing assistant, who is young and relatively new but willing, may benefit from a more authoritative leadership style, particularly during the initial phase of their career. An authoritative leader provides clear guidance and instructions, which can help the nursing assistant build confidence and develop essential skills (Marquis & Huston, 2019). As the nursing assistant gains experience and becomes more organized, a gradual shift towards a democratic leadership style can be implemented, allowing them to contribute more to decision-making processes.

Using a Single Leadership Style:

While it may be tempting to adopt a single leadership style for simplicity, it is not always justified. Each team member has unique characteristics, experience levels, and needs (Grossman & Valiga, 2017). Tailoring your leadership approach to the individual can optimize team dynamics and performance. A one-size-fits-all approach may hinder the development of less experienced team members or fail to fully utilize the expertise of seasoned professionals.

Adapting Leadership Style in Emergencies:

During emergencies, the leadership style may need to shift towards a more authoritative approach for the sake of efficiency and clear direction (Marquis & Huston, 2019). In critical situations, quick decision-making and precise instructions become paramount. However, it is crucial to maintain open communication channels and a supportive atmosphere, even in emergencies, to ensure that the team functions smoothly under pressure (Northouse, 2018).

Conclusion

In managing a healthcare team consisting of an experienced LPN/LVN and a less experienced nursing assistant, an effective leader should be flexible in their approach to leadership styles. While a democratic approach can empower experienced team members, an authoritative approach may be necessary to guide and develop less experienced individuals. Adapting leadership styles based on the team’s unique dynamics and the situation at hand ensures the best outcomes for patient care. In emergencies, a shift towards an authoritative style may be required, but maintaining open communication remains essential for successful teamwork.

References

Grossman, S. C., & Valiga, T. M. (2017). The new leadership challenge: Creating the future of nursing. F.A. Davis.

Marquis, B. L., & Huston, C. J. (2019). Leadership roles and management functions in nursing: Theory and application. Wolters Kluwer.

Northouse, P. G. (2018). Leadership: Theory and practice. Sage Publications.

frequently asked questions (FAQs)

1. What is the authoritative leadership style?
   • Authoritative leadership involves a leader who provides clear instructions and makes decisions with little input from team members. It is often used when quick decisions are needed or when team members are less experienced and require guidance.
2. What is the democratic leadership style?
   • Democratic leadership is characterized by a leader who involves team members in decision-making processes. This style encourages collaboration and seeks input from team members before making decisions.
3. What is the laissez-faire leadership style?
   • Laissez-faire leadership is a hands-off approach where the leader provides minimal guidance or direction to the team. This style is often used when team members are highly skilled and self-motivated.
4. Why should leadership styles be tailored to individual team members?
   • Tailoring leadership styles to individual team members recognizes that each person has unique characteristics, skills, and needs. Adapting the leadership approach can help motivate and develop team members more effectively.
5. What is the importance of open communication in leadership, even during emergencies?
   • Open communication is crucial in leadership as it fosters trust, collaboration, and effective problem-solving. During emergencies, clear communication ensures that everyone understands their roles and responsibilities, leading to a coordinated response.
6. How can a leader transition from an authoritative to a democratic leadership style with a team member?
   • Transitioning from an authoritative to a democratic style can be gradual. As the team member gains experience and confidence, the leader can start involving them in decision-making processes and seeking their input.
7. Why is it important to consider the dynamics of a healthcare team when choosing a leadership style?
   • Healthcare teams often consist of members with varying levels of experience and skills. Understanding the team dynamics helps a leader choose the most effective leadership style to promote teamwork and quality patient care.
8. Can leadership styles change in response to different situations?
   • Yes, leadership styles can and often should change in response to different situations. Effective leaders adapt their styles to suit the needs of the team and the demands of the situation, whether it’s a routine task or an emergency.
9. What are the benefits of tailoring leadership styles in healthcare settings?
   • Tailoring leadership styles in healthcare settings can lead to improved team morale, increased job satisfaction, better patient care outcomes, and the development of individual team members’ skills.
10. How can a leader balance being authoritative in emergencies while maintaining a supportive atmosphere?
    • Leaders can balance authority and support by clearly communicating expectations and tasks, ensuring that team members have the necessary resources, and providing emotional support to reduce stress during high-pressure situations.