Lesson 1 Overview

Nursing leadership is a dynamic process that demands knowledge and insight about external forces that effect workplace environments.  Some of these external forces include the changing healthcare system, health care reform, and healthcare economics.

In this lesson we'll explore the influences that have driven change within the health care system and its impact on nursing and nurse leaders. You will explore forces that have affected the health care system and the role of nursing and nurse managers. These activities will help you see that nursing doesn't practice in isolation of what is happening locally, state-wide, nationally, or in the world. External forces create a great impact on nursing practice and how patient care is managed. Now more than ever, nursing must show leadership and involvement in shaping the way health care is delivered in our country.

Lesson 1 Objectives

• Discuss the forces that have influenced change in the health care system.
• Describe the impact of quality and error reduction.
• Discuss the challenges present for nurses and nurse leaders.

Lesson Readings and Activities

• By the end of this lesson, make sure you have completed the readings and activities found in the Course Schedule for Lesson 1.