Nursing leadership in the critical care setting.

The challenge of a nursing leadership role within the critical care setting is most unique in that two competencies are required--clinical and administrative talents. The development of such leaders also presents a challenge to administrators of health care settings. With administrative support of the nurse who aspires to such a role, we will continue to provide the caliber of care required by acutely ill and injured patients. Based on a philosophy of management that promotes both clinical and administrative talents, this plan will not only best serve the patient population of acute/critical care units but will also help foster the professional commitment of nurse practitioners and encourage them to aspire to such roles.