• To recognise the importance of effective leadership during highly challenging periods, such as the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic
• To understand the advantages and disadvantages of using the transactional, transformational and laissez-faire leadership styles in the context of the COVID-19 pandemic
• To be aware of the potential benefits of compassionate leadership during the COVID-19 pandemic
Leadership is central to effective nursing practice and is considered to be particularly important during crises such as the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic. This article examines several leadership styles that are commonly used in healthcare – namely the transactional, transformational and laissez-faire leadership styles – and considers their advantages and disadvantages in the context of the COVID-19 pandemic. It also explains the potential benefits of compassionate leadership in supporting the nursing workforce during this highly challenging and stressful period.
Nursing Standard. doi: 10.7748/ns.2021.e11601
Peer reviewThis article has been subject to external double-blind peer review and checked for plagiarism using automated software
CorrespondenceAnneharrington2@virginmedia.com
Conflict of interestNone declared
Harrington A (2021) Understanding effective nurse leadership styles during the COVID-19 pandemic. Nursing Standard. doi: 10.7748/ns.2021.e11601
Published online: 22 April 2021
