Post Interview Reflection

After interviewing with the cardiac thoracic nurse, I learned that leadership prevails on the unit. The nurse mentioned a time when they took over the leadership role for a code and delegated functions to the other nurses and outlined a smoothly executed code. Moreover, they informed me that you tend to notice between your coworkers who tend to take a leader role amongst who tends to be a follower. With that said, you need both leaders and followers for procedures and teamwork to flow smoothly. On the other hand, they shared a time where a code occurred, and there wasn’t a leader that spoke up, and it ended up delaying the response. Noticeable mishaps occurred that wouldn’t have if proper communication was stated and roles were established. They reminded me how it is essential to allow a leader to stand up and establish that role and others to take the position they were given for things to work well.
Furthermore, you never want your ego to step in the way when caring for another life. It was an important reminder that what is best for the patient outweighs what you may want. That response made by the registered nurse sparked some prior knowledge I had of what it takes to be a leader and health care professional. After speaking with this nurse, the leadership roles were reinforced by empathy, courage, confidence, accountability, and optimism. It was a good reminder that many of those roles defining a leader are also needed to be the best healthcare professionals. I will be sure to apply this knowledge to when I am working and not let my ego get in the way. Furthermore, I will make sure to listen to what is delegated to me and delegate to otters when needed to. It is important to recognize that without these qualities more mistakes and miscommunication can occur which puts the patient at a risk of not the best care one can provide for them.