Happy National Nurses Week! Each year in May, we nurses step back to reflect on our professional achievements and to celebrate our colleagues. This year, Nurses Week focuses on the role of the nurse leader and opportunities for leadership in the changing health care environment. The Infusion Nurses Society (INS) is also highlighting the rewards and challenges of leading in the nursing profession.To lead means to guide or direct on a course. There are a number of ways to lead in our profession: Lead others. First and foremost, we look to lead our colleagues toward better patient-centered care. As we work together, our leadership can help to advance their practice and professional development. Patients, too, can benefit from our leadership as they learn from us to take responsibility for their health. Our skill in educating patients about their treatment, with their involvement, creates positive outcomes. Student nurses also need mentoring and leadership. Leading by example is the simplest and most effective model for new nurses to gain knowledge. Your competence and attitude will have an enormous impact on a young nurse who is just learning the ropes.
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