Abstract

Healthcare leaders at the end of this session:

(1) Leaders will be able to identify and define the current reality of combat zone healthcare, focus on achievable commitments, and stay accessible to build trust.

(2)  Leaders will be able to identify what is adaptable decision-making

(3)  Leaders will be able to identify resources to act as advocates for frontline healthcare providers.

(4) Leaders will be able to prioritize major issues, empower their teams, and be prepared to adapt plans as the situation evolves, learning from past experiences to build resilience.   

Extraordinary times call for extraordinary leaders. In times of crisis, leaders come face-to-face with their leadership moment (Thurgood, K, 2023).  While the foundational principles of effective leadership remain unchanged, leading in times of crisis requires leaders to take three discrete actions:  Provide stability; define the Purpose; identify Priorities. While there is no guarantee that action in a crisis will win the day, failure to take action will surely result in losing the day (Thurgood, K, 2023).  This oral presentation will represent and reinforce nursing leadership in a crisis involves making decisive, informed decisions under pressure, ensuring patient safety while guiding and supporting staff, and maintaining trust through predictable and ethical behavior. Key aspects include strategic planning combined with on-the-spot problem-solving, adherence to evolving guidelines, and prioritizing patient care to achieve positive outcomes, even when faced with overwhelming and ambiguous situations.