4 days ago2 min read

The Importance of Building a Strong Foundation as a Nurse Leader

I’ve been navigating the challenges of my career as I transitioned from LPN to DON.

One of the most important lessons I’ve learned along the way is the significance of building a strong foundation.

No matter how great you think you are at the top, it’s imperative to start structurally, just as you would when building a house.

Imagine constructing a home; you wouldn’t overlook the framework and flooring, ensuring they’re sturdy enough to prevent collapse.

You would do whatever it takes to maintain that structural integrity. This same mindset is essential for a Director of Nursing.

I’ve had the privilege of starting my career as an LPN and working my way up through each level.

Once I became a DON, I realized that my ability to stand strong in this role depended entirely on the solidity of my foundation.

This perspective is crucial for all nurse leaders.

I often say that CNAs are the bricks of the building.

If this foundation isn’t strong, the entire structure will collapse.

They provide so much value to our residents and our team.

LPNs form the framework, holding the solid posts in place.

RNs secure everything together, ensuring that all the pieces fit cohesively.

As the DON, my role is to nurture and support each level, understanding that the foundation is paramount.

When the foundation is strong, we can continue to build effectively on top of it.

However, when it is weak, we risk falling through the cracks.

Weak foundations often result from high turnover, lack of knowledge, insufficient support, and inadequate resources.

This can lead to instability and a cycle of challenges that are hard to break.

Remember, you can be great at the top all you want, but when the foundation is weak and the soil isn’t being watered, you will continue to sink.

As nurse leaders, it’s our responsibility to cultivate that foundation, ensuring it remains strong and resilient.

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