“What do you need me to do?”
She was the supervisor and I was the new graduate nurse. Since we have been working together prior to my graduation, she allowed me to delegate to her.
As a nursing assistant for a number of years, the nurses had grown to know my determination to become a Registered Nurse. However, when the perspective changed, more than just my duties shifted, it was up to me to make decisions and lead the team.
Filling the Gap with Trust
“Kathy” had been a nursing supervisor for 15 years. She not only served as a clinical resource, she truly was a “nurse’s nurse.” She knew exactly when to speak up and when to simply listen. Her trust in me planted confidence in my own decision making. She could see me through my eyes.
It would have been easy for her to take over. However, some supervisors don’t realize the powerful impact they can initiate by allowing new nurses to practice decision making. Kathy chose to walk the nursing path of not only mentoring verbally but also by action.
Then, after the fact, whether things went well or not, she would ask pertinent questions. Even the tone of her voice was supportive. There were a number of times I second guessed myself. She could see through my thought process and help me point to a positive direction.
Great Leaders Set Out to Make a Difference
Mistakes were learning tools. Achievements were noticed. I credit Kathy with her assistance in transitioning from the nursing student role to that of a nurse leader.
Years later when I became a nursing supervisor myself, there were times I found myself in complicated situations. Then came back the reassurance I had learned as a new graduate. I hope the listening, teaching, and encouraging I did for those nurses proved helpful for their confidence.
I have much respect for the power of mentoring. Having been a recipient of a nurse mentor who trusted me was, without a doubt, a significant motivator for me to pass on the benefits of mentoring.