Robert G. Hess, Jr., RN, PhD
Expiration Date: December 31, 2011. No CE contact hours (CH) will be given after this date.
Abstract
A brand-new nursing shortage is revitalizing shared governance. This innovative organizational model gives staff nurses control over their practice and can extend their influence into administrative areas previously controlled only by managers. But nursing shared governance is hard to define. Its structures and processes are different in every organization; and its implementation is like pinning Jell-O® to a wall. Is it appropriate for every situation? Is it worth the price? And can it really measure up to its glowing reputation? This article presents an overview of nursing shared governance, looking at themes and experiences from its rich 25-year tradition. The author identifies its essential elements, provides guidance for professionals who wish to embark on the journey, and describes the current status of shared governance as of 2008.Citation: Hess, R., (January 31, 2004). "From Bedside to Boardroom – Nursing Shared Governance". Online Journal of Issues in Nursing. Vol. #9 No. #1, Manuscript 1. Available on the OJIN Web site
Key words: : governance, shared governance; control over practice; professional practice models; power; authority
Objectives:
- Define the concept of shared governance in nursing.
- Describe the advantages and disadvantages of shared governance.
- Delineate implementation issues associated with nursing shared governance.
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