What is an essential quality for a nurse leader to improve patient care delivery?

An essential quality for a nurse leader to improve patient care delivery is effective follower support. This involves actively listening to team members, valuing their contributions, and fostering an environment where collaboration can thrive. When a nurse leader supports their followers, it encourages open communication and trust, which are crucial for a cohesive team dynamic.

By promoting effective follower support, a nurse leader can enhance teamwork and engagement, leading to improved patient outcomes. Team members who feel supported are more likely to express their ideas, share concerns, and contribute to problem-solving, ultimately leading to higher quality patient care.

In contrast, the other options undermine the collaborative nature necessary for effective nurse leadership. Autocratic decision-making stifles input from team members and can lead to dissatisfaction and decreased morale. Complete independence from team input disregards the valuable insights of frontline staff, which can negatively affect the quality of care. Disregarding feedback from staff not only alienates team members but also misses opportunities for growth and improvement based on direct care experiences.