In Service to Others: APRNs as Serving Leaders During the COVID-19 Pandemic

Abstract

The impact of the SARS-CoV-2 virus on delivery of hospital care during the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic has required effective nursing leadership of large teams of Advanced Practice Registered Nurses (APRNs). At a large academic medical center in the mid-Atlantic United States, nurse leaders combined knowledge of the psychological phases of disaster and principles of the Serving Leadership framework to mobilize and lead APRN teams to deliver high-quality care to all patients and provide a safe working environment for healthcare teams. In this article, we discuss exemplars that demonstrate the flexibility and strengths of APRNs in all roles who addressed rapidly evolving needs such as resource allocation and education. The conclusion highlights the value and relevance of APRN skillsets to clinical practice and the opportunity to further capitalize on these strengths during the continuing journey through this COVID-19 pandemic and beyond.