Shared governance for nursing. Part I: Creating the new organization

Abstract

In Part I, the concept of shared governance is presented. I have discussed what it means to move toward a shared governance model and the way of thinking and reorganizing that supports it. Basic principles that drive the concept are discussed, and the underpinnings necessary to make it work are identified. Clearly, the move toward shared governance is not simply an organizational transition. It is a method for transforming the way we work and make decisions. Part II will examine how roles are changed. The management function, the impact of shared governance on its function, and changes in the manager's behavior will be identified. In Part II, the importance of peer processes and supports for ensuring that changes are carried out by staff leadership are discussed. A new way of composing and exercising the executive function in a professional organization also will be discussed.