ABSTRACT
The health, welfare and protection of the public are paramount concerns of society and government. The Nursing and Midwifery Board of Australia (NMBA) has produced national standards that are an integral component of the regulatory framework, to assist nurses (NMBA, 2016c) and midwives to deliver safe and competent care. Professional conduct refers to the way a person behaves while acting in a professional capacity. Nursing is a complex, dynamic, social process that is built on a relationship between the nurse, the patient, their family, community and culture, and the clinical organization. Leadership style is positively associated with higher levels of quality patient care and staff morale, and is a highly sought after and valued commodity. The great man theory argues that one is simply born a great leader with innate qualities relating to intelligence and personality suitable for all situations. A situational or contingency leader is a leader by virtue of their skills and ability in a particular situation.
