What core attribute should a nurse exhibit to effectively lead their team?

Flexibility is a core attribute essential for a nurse to effectively lead their team because it allows for adaptability in various situations, which is crucial in the dynamic healthcare environment. A flexible leader can adjust their approach based on the team's needs, the patients' conditions, or any unexpected challenges that arise. This adaptability fosters a collaborative atmosphere, encourages team input, and enhances problem-solving abilities, ultimately improving patient care.

In a healthcare setting, circumstances can change rapidly, such as during emergencies or in response to new information about a patient's condition. A flexible leader can navigate these shifts smoothly, rallying the team to respond effectively and ensuring that care remains patient-centered and efficient.

While assertiveness is important for leaders to communicate their expectations clearly, flexibility complements this by allowing leaders to incorporate feedback and adjust plans as necessary. Independence can lead to isolation rather than teamwork, and dominance may create a hierarchical environment that stifles team collaboration. Thus, flexibility stands out as the key attribute for successful leadership in nursing teamwork.