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Why you should read this article: • To refresh your knowledge of various leadership styles that are commonly used in healthcare • To learn about the principles and characteristics of authentic leadership • To recognise the benefits and challenges of nurses adopting authentic leadership Authentic leadership is a relatively new concept in nursing, with limited studies undertaken into its application in healthcare. Authentic leadership emphasises the importance of the leader being true to their personal core values and developing honest relationships with team members, valuing their contributions, and behaving ethically and transparently. Trust is a central tenet of authentic leadership that aims to lead to increased staff engagement, and enhanced individual and team performance. This article explores the principles, benefits and challenges of authentic leadership, as well as examining its potential role in nursing. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Why you should read this article: • To enable you to outline the various types and characteristics of leadership • To understand the importance of effective nurse leadership and its effect on patient care • To identify ways to enhance your leadership skills and apply these in your everyday practice Leadership is a role that nurses are expected to fulfil, regardless of their job title and experience. Nurses are required to lead and manage care as soon as they have completed their training. However, the development of leadership skills and the associated learning can be challenging, especially for less experienced nurses and those at the beginning of their careers. This article examines the importance of effective leadership for nurses, patients and healthcare organisations, and outlines some of the theories of leadership such as transformational leadership. It also details how nurses can develop their leadership skills, for example through self-awareness, critical reflection and role modelling. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

There have been several changes to healthcare services in the UK over recent years, with rising NHS costs and increasing demands on healthcare professionals to deliver high-quality care. Simultaneously, public inquiries have identified suboptimal leadership throughout the NHS, which has been linked to a lack of clear leadership across the healthcare professions. In nursing, the role of the advanced nurse practitioner is regarded as a solution to this leadership challenge. This article examines the background to the development of the advanced nurse practitioner role. It also explores the various factors that may affect nurse leadership and the role of the advanced nurse practitioner, including professional identity, gender, nursing's strategic influence, clinical outcomes, and recruitment and retention. The article concludes that while advanced nurse practitioners can positively influence clinical outcomes and cost efficiency, they must also be adequately prepared to undertake a leadership role. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]