- May 6
- Uncategorized
By: James Blasko, RN, BSN, Nurse Manager
Springfield, Jacksonville, Pekin and MAT nursing program
For National Nurses Week, I want to send my warmest wishes to all nurses, especially the ones in my Gateway family. You make every day better for our patients and our staff. This week reminds me how grateful I am for all of you who have made me a better nurse leader since I started by career.
Twenty-five years ago, I did not see myself becoming a leader. But as the years progressed and I met more nurse leaders, I took a different path. My career began in the intensive care unit at our local hospital here in Springfield, which led to opportunities in other medical units like oncology, hospice and surgical before I found my home at Gateway. For 25 years, I’ve had the chance to watch and learn what makes great nursing leaders.
NURSE LEADERS SHOW INTEGRITY.
Like all good leaders, nurse leaders need to have a strong sense of self and purpose so they can always do the right thing even in tough situations.
THEY ARE RESILIENT.
When they fall down, they get right back up. Nurse leaders have been tested, they’ve proven themselves, and they’ve risen to the top of their organizations despite challenges they’ve faced.
THEY PAY IT FORWARD.
They give credit where credit is due. As champions of their teams, they cheer others on and applaud them publicly. Great nursing leaders recognize the scope of their positions, but they never forget to acknowledge those who taught, mentored and motivated them along the way. When great nursing leaders are successful, they don’t look for praise for themselves; instead, they credit the success to the others’ contributions.
THEY SET GOALS (& REACH THEM).
Because of their strong sense of self, they plan and chart their own courses carefully and thoughtfully. Over time, they set and meet many goals, but they’re always eager to accomplish more. They’re proud of all they have achieved, but are prouder still of what they’ve led others to achieve.
THEY SHOW PASSION & COMPASSION.
Nurse leaders are eager to accept responsibility and accountability for outcomes. They listen to their patients and their team members and show them what they are capable of. Because of this, staff members feel safe and prepared to take over when necessary because their leader has given them the confidence they need. And above all, the best nursing leaders put their whole heart into all they do.
BECOME A NURSE LEADER AT GATEWAY FOUNDATION
Want to be a part of our life-saving team? Learn more about nursing job opportunities at Gateway here.
