ABSTRACT

This chapter considers the role of nurses as both leaders and influencers of health and care services. It recognises that high-profile nurses such as Florence Nightingale and Mary Seacole are still held up as role models for the profession today. The nursing profession in England was thrust into turmoil when Sir Robert Francis published his damning report following the inquiry into the failings at Mid Staffordshire National Health Service (NHS) Foundation Trust in the UK. Leaders in nursing are challenged with affecting the delicate balance between the need to innovate, develop care strategy and ensure sustainable services whilst at the same time managing the immediate demands of capacity and ensuring safe, effective care. The leadership and care coordination role should be assigned to the most appropriate person to lead and deliver optimal care for each patient, as well as to recognise educational training and its application in context.