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Online Companion: Fundamentals of Nursing Standards and Practice 2E
Chapter 22 examines the aspects of professional accountability and leadership styles for the nursing profession. Historically in the 19th century, there has been considerable debate over the whether nursing had in fact exhibited behaviors that were characteristic of a “profession”. However, with the advent of the 20th century and in response to societal and political changes nursing did organize and is now known as a distinct “professional” entity. This chapter illustrates professional criteria and compares them to the nursing profession. Elements of professional accountability help determine the scope of nursing practice and further help to support nursing as a recognized profession. The professional nurse has rights and responsibilities whereby they are held accountable both to themselves, their clients and to their profession. Elements of professional practice are further studied by examining professional practice standards, accreditation, certification and licensure (both by examination and endorsement). Elements of advanced nursing practice are discussed that require additional training and specialization. Leadership styles and management
characteristics are discussed in the chapter to provide a framework for the
professional nurse. A discussion of the various types of power and the concept
of empowerment both for nurses and their clients are considered as evidence
of effective nursing competency and realization of professional goals. The concept
of networking is explored to provide an insight into how the nurse can further
contribute to professional growth and development. The professional nurse has
evolved throughout the centuries and now holds a positive effective place in
the delivery of health care services by participating in nursing associations
(and organizations) that represent the power, scope and philosophy of nursing
practice.
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