Discrepancies between year-to-date financial performance and predetermined goals highlight areas that require attention. For example, the provision of computers and tablets to nurses is currently at only 55%, significantly below the target of 80%. The goal of mentoring newly hired nurses for 60 days has been extended to 90 days due to sluggish performance and insufficient focus on training and learning enhancement. Additionally, major expenses have exceeded projections, and underinvestment in leadership training further exacerbates the gap between targets and actual performance. Bridging these gaps necessitates proactive measures such as controlling operating expenses and optimizing staffing to effectively achieve financial goals.
Leadership Plan for Closing the Identified Gaps for the Department
Addressing leadership gaps is essential for organizational success, as highlighted by self-assessments conducted during previous analyses. A significant gap identified is the lack of motivation among nursing leaders to participate in leadership education and training programs. Strong leadership qualities among nursing managers are vital for maintaining optimal financial performance in hospitals (Lerman, 2018). The leadership plan aims to enhance leadership skills among nurses and executives, fostering a culture of collaboration and efficient problem-solving (Pedersen, 2018). Mandatory leadership training will improve adaptability and support the achievement of organizational objectives.
Understanding organizational culture and strategic direction is crucial for improving leadership effectiveness and achieving financial objectives. Initiatives such as upgrading lighting systems to reduce maintenance costs and implementing team-based rewards create a supportive environment for achieving financial goals (Gresh et al., 2021). Transformational leadership styles, characterized by passion, empathy, innovation, and risk-taking, have proven effective in enhancing team performance and patient satisfaction, thereby improving financial outcomes (Cabral, 2019). Consistent application of nursing leadership skills facilitates budget planning, fosters teamwork, and reduces non-labor costs, ultimately aligning organizational goals with financial performance (Beitz, 2019).
References
Beitz, J. M. (2019). The perioperative succession crisis: A cross-sectional study of clinical realities and strategies for academic nursing. Nursing Economics, 37(4), 179-197.