Three Books for the Nurse Leader
Nurses on Board ... Planning Your Path to the Boardroom, Connie Curran, 2015. Indianapolis, IN: Sigma Theta Tau International. Softcover, 162 pages, $39.95, e-book Google Play $31.16.
In 2010, the Institute of Medicine (IOM) Committee on the Future of Nursing called for more nurses to serve on boards. (IOM Report, The Future of Nursing, 2011, National Academies Press, pg. 8). This book addresses the path to the boardroom for those leaders who are pursuing a seat on a board or are inclined to do so. This is a special book because it was written by a nurse leader who taught and mentored many current nurse executives. The author died last year, leaving a legacy of guidance for others. The dedication page of this work reads, "The Honor Society of Nursing, Sigma Theta Tau, would like to express its deep respect and admiration for the life and work of Connie Curran."
In true Curran style, Connie brought together 9 contributors to share practical advice on how to proceed from thinking about being a board member to becoming one. The authors build on the knowledge of what nurses need to know to get on boards, how to plan their path, and, most importantly, how to serve as a productive board member. In just 7 chapters, Dr Curran and her contributors give us a comprehensive understanding of what we need to know and the leadership competencies required for a successful board member. In his foreword, Dr Roy Simpson points to the one critical fact omitted from the book:
Decision-making at the board level is painful. She [Dr Curran] knew that truth all too well. Being on a board requires deep reflective thought that your colleagues might not see as positive and, yet, the organization's very survival depends on the board's willingness to make tough decisions. (pg. xxv)
Dr Simpson's observation makes this book even more important, as nursing leaders take their best insights to the highest level in health care governance.
The Power of Ten, 2nd edition, A Conversational Approach to Tackling the Top Ten Priorities in Nursing, Susan B. Hassmiller and Jennifer S. Mensik, 2017. Indianapolis, IN: Sigma Theta Tau International. Softcover, 199 pages, $34.95.
Conversation is a proven method for passing on knowledge and wisdom. Through a creative dialogue between 2 generations of nurses about issues important to the profession, authors Hassmiller and Mensik demonstrate this truth. The conversations focus on 10 themes affecting the future of nursing (based on a survey of 50 experts) that are approached through a lens of a Culture of Health. These are Educational Reform, Academic Progression, Diversity, Interprofessional Collaboration, Systems Thinking, Voice of Nursing, Global Stewardship, Practice Authority, Delivery of Care, and Professional Handoff. As the book notes, "Building a Culture of Health is a movement taking on one of the most pervasive challenges of our time: improving the health and well-being of everyone in America" (Preface, pg. XVIII).
The authors have compiled short essays written by experts on each theme. These are followed by a shared essay from 2 generations that the authors label "sage wisdom" and "younger perspectives." Throughout the book, quotes from educators, service leaders, and other well-known executives enhance the discussion.
This book places the reader in the center of the conversation. It is thought-provoking, well-organized, and exactly what it promises to be. (Note: the author shares of royalties from this book will be donated equally to American Red Cross nursing programs and the American Nurses Foundation.)
Reflections on Nursing ... 80 Inspiring Stories on the Art and Science of Nursing,American Journal of Nursing (AJN), 2016. Philadelphia, PA: Wolters Kluwer. Softcover, 194 pages, $15.95 Barnes & Noble, $9.95 Google Play.
Stories are another powerful way to hand down wisdom. This book shares 80 reflections that have appeared in columns in AJN since its inception in 1983. These stories are organized around 12 topics: All in the Family, Career Is a Forking Path, Colleagues, For Better or Worse, Doctor Jekyll and Doctor Hyde, From the Other Side, Getting Started, Heartbreakers, Lessons Learned, Making a Difference, Memorable Patients, Navigating the System, and Tables Turned. The stories capture nursing at its best, the science and biology, moments of triumph, and times of sadness. I think the reason these columns have resonated over the years is that our multidimensional vocation can best be understood through stories of nurses written by nurses and those working with nurses. This is a good personal read that might be beneficial to share with others who should and could learn about the experiences that define this courageous, beautiful, and special profession.
-Elizabeth (Betty) Falter, MS, BSN, RN, NEA-BC