VA Pipeline for Future Nurse Leaders: an Exploration of Current Nurse Leadership Development in the Veteran's Health Administration
Abstract
The complex National Veterans Affairs Healthcare System is in crisis and in need of adaptive, capable, effective nurse leaders. The VA faces a leadership crisis and significant leadership loss from impending baby boomer generation retirements. VA Nurse Leaders are retiring at a rapid rate taking their leadership skills and knowledge with them. How is the VA preparing the next generation of nurse leaders? The purpose of this research study is to explore and examine the current nurse leader development practices in the VA, the VA Leadership Philosophy, and the current VA RN workforce trends. This study used a multidimensional mixed-methods approach; exploratory, descriptive and case study with qualitative and quantitative methodology. It includes: literature review, comparison, and summary of findings of the VA competencies and strategies of nurse leadership development, VA RN workforce trends and provides further recommendations. Servant Leadership was identified as the emerging VA Leadership Theory. Numerous leadership development strategies were identified. However, with current challenges facing the VA, the VA would benefit from ensuring a VA pipeline for effective nurse leaders through a national standardized VA Nurse Leadership Development Program. It is mission-critical for the VA to develop Nurse Leaders from the bedside to the boardroom, to lead and provide excellent Veteran-Centric healthcare, shape policy, and respond to an ambiguous, chaotic, and complex healthcare environment.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Jun 10, 2016
- Accession Number
- AD1028321
Entities
People
- Jessie A D'agostino
Organizations
- United States Army Command and General Staff College