The health professional I have chosen was a clinical instructor of mine in a previous semester. I chose to write about her because she demonstrated a strong dedication to her practice, a vast wealth of knowledge, and a commitment to learning from her patients and her peers. I could tell that all staff on the unit, regardless of status or rank, were drawn to her and felt comfortable around her. I know that she worked on the unit for several years as a CNA before becoming a nurse, which strengthened her relationship with the staff and helped her to establish herself as a member of the care team.
The difference between formal and informal leadership is the presence of official authority. Formal leadership comes from structure and authority, and it is usually methodically appointed. On the other hand, informal leadership may not have the traits of an official role and may just be a known status that a person has grown into. Often, informal leadership is more of a position of influence rather than a different title. The nurse I chose to write about is more of an informal leader, as she is still very young and relatively new to her nursing role. She has not been formally appointed as a leader on the unit itself, however, I think her status as a clinical educator speaks volumes about her influence in the hospital, as she is clearly a trusted source of knowledge.
I am most interested in learning about how this nurse feels she is supported on the unit, and how she may be able to turn her informal leadership into formal leadership over time. I am curious to find out more about conflicts and ethical dilemmas she has faced, and how her informal leadership role has helped her to handle certain situations.
Thanks Evan; comments and grade are noted in Brightspace.