Sondra, a new graduate, recently began a position as a registered nurse in a rural hospital, where she is the youngest and newest staff member

Question

Although she has limited experience, she has a strong knowledge base, is confident, and was considered to have strong entry-level skills on graduation. Sondra meets with her former instructor and confides that she is very frustrated that others do not seem to accept her leadership. What might you suggest that would help Sondra to understand what is happening in terms of power and influence? a. As a new graduate, it is unlikely that she has acquired the experience and know-ledge of other staff, including aides and practical nurses.
b. Rural settings tend to be closed systems and therefore are, not welcoming of those who are not from their community.
c. Morale on her unit can be improved by engaging in shared decision making.
d. Identify the informal leaders on her unit and how they affect care decisions.

Answer 1

D
Developing organizational savvy includes identifying the real decision makers and those persons who have a high level of influence with the decision makers. Recognize the informal leaders within any organization may have more power than the formal leader because of more knowledge of the organization, more informational power, or more expertise.