Fostering Resilient Leadership in Times of Crisis

Now more than ever, the leadership of nurses and physicians is invaluable to the teams, organizations and patients they serve. They help those around them keep perspective, and their vision and guidance pave the road to a healthier future.

Yet times of crisis present unique challenges for clinician leaders as they seek to illuminate the path forward through rapid change, information overload and limited resources.

To help these leaders navigate the COVID-19 crisis and lead their teams with confidence and care, the AHA’s American Organization for Nursing Leadership (AONL) subsidiary developed Leading Through Crisis: A Resource Compendium for Nurse Leaders. Supported by an unrestricted educational grant from the Johnson & Johnson Foundation, this free compendium is comprised of online modules designed to help leaders employ effective strategies for coping, staying centered, building resilience and leading with integrity during challenging circumstances.

Additionally, the AHA created the Caring for Our Health Care Heroes During COVID-19 resource. It outlines the ways hospitals and health systems are helping to care for and support the health care workforce during this crisis. The document focuses on three areas—mental health, food and housing—and features case examples from across the country. It also provides a list of national well-being programs and resources developed for health care workers.

Thank you for your ongoing commitment to fostering resilient leadership and supporting your teams. The AHA will continue to share tools, resources and stories from the field to help support you.

Robyn Begley, DNP, RN, is AHA senior vice president and chief nursing officer and CEO of the American Organization for Nursing Leadership.