Leadership and followership are both critical aspects of nursing practice.

In the nursing profession, leadership is

not limited to those in formal leadership positions but can be demonstrated by any nurse at any level.
Followership, on the other hand, refers to the ability of nurses to work effectively as part of a team, following the
direction of their leaders while actively contributing to the achievement of common goals. Let's explore
leadership and followership in nursing in more detail:
1. Leadership in Nursing:
- Transformational Leadership: Transformational leaders inspire and motivate their team members to achieve
excellence. They foster positive work environments, encourage personal growth, and promote innovation and
change.
- Situational Leadership: Situational leaders adapt their leadership style to the specific needs of their followers
and the situation at hand. They assess the competence and commitment of their team members and provide
guidance accordingly.
- Clinical Leadership: Clinical leaders demonstrate expertise in nursing practice and guide their teams in
delivering high-quality, evidence-based care. They promote professional development, mentorship, and
effective communication within the healthcare team.
- Advocacy: Nurse leaders advocate for their patients, ensuring their rights, needs, and preferences are
respected. They also advocate for the nursing profession, addressing issues related to staffing, patient safety,
and healthcare policy.
2. Followership in Nursing:
- Active Engagement: Effective followers actively participate in the decision-making process, offering their
expertise and insights to contribute to better patient outcomes. They take responsibility for their actions and
seek opportunities for professional growth.
- Effective Communication: Followers in nursing promote open and honest communication within the
healthcare team. They actively listen to their colleagues, provide constructive feedback, and collaborate to
achieve shared goals.
- Competence and Accountability: Effective followers strive to maintain high standards of competence in their
nursing practice. They take ownership of their responsibilities, deliver safe and quality care, and are accountable
for their actions.
- Collaboration: Followers in nursing recognize the importance of teamwork and collaboration. They value the
contributions of other healthcare professionals and work together to provide holistic care to patients.
In summary, nursing requires both effective leadership and followership. Effective nurse leaders inspire and
guide their teams to achieve excellence, while effective followers actively contribute to the achievement of
common goals, promote effective communication, and collaborate within the healthcare team. By combining
leadership and followership skills, nurses can enhance patient care, promote a positive work environment, and
drive positive change in healthcare.