What is Nursing Shared Governance? A 2024 Guide

Nursing shared governance represents a transformational leadership model within healthcare organizations. The American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC) recognizes shared governance as a key component of Magnet recognition, symbolizing its importance in fostering nurse empowerment and professional autonomy. These councils provide a structured platform for nurses to influence policy and practice, addressing critical issues such as patient care standards and resource allocation. Implementation of the shared governance framework ensures nurses have direct input into decisions affecting their practice and patient outcomes. Understanding what is nursing shared governance is essential for healthcare administrators and nursing professionals striving to enhance job satisfaction, improve patient care quality, and cultivate a collaborative work environment.

Shared governance in nursing represents a paradigm shift in healthcare administration, moving away from traditional hierarchical structures.

It embraces a decentralized approach to decision-making, directly involving nurses in shaping their practice environment and influencing patient care outcomes.

At its core, shared governance is about empowerment: giving nurses a voice, fostering ownership, and promoting professional autonomy.

Defining Shared Governance: A Foundation of Empowerment

Shared governance is more than just a buzzword; it's a philosophical and structural framework.

It allows nurses to participate meaningfully in decisions that affect their work, their patients, and the overall direction of their healthcare organization.

This decentralized model ensures that decision-making authority is distributed throughout the nursing ranks, rather than concentrated at the top.

The Core Principles: Guiding the Shared Governance Journey

Several core principles underpin successful shared governance implementation. These principles act as a compass, guiding the structure's activities and ensuring its integrity.

Accountability is paramount: nurses are responsible for their decisions and actions within the shared governance framework.

Autonomy grants nurses the freedom to make independent judgments and exercise professional discretion.

Partnership emphasizes collaborative relationships among nurses, managers, and other healthcare professionals.

Equity ensures that all nurses have equal opportunities to participate and contribute to shared governance initiatives.

Ownership fosters a sense of responsibility and investment in the success of the organization and the well-being of patients.

The Significance of Shared Governance: A Trifecta of Benefits

The benefits of shared governance extend far beyond individual nurse empowerment.

It significantly enhances job satisfaction, empowering nurses to feel valued and respected.

This, in turn, leads to improved patient outcomes.

When nurses are engaged and supported, they are more likely to provide high-quality, compassionate care.

Moreover, shared governance fosters a culture of leadership among nurses.

It provides opportunities for them to develop their leadership skills, influence change, and mentor their peers.

This collective leadership strengthens the nursing profession and enhances its impact on the healthcare system.

A Brief Historical Context: From Hierarchy to Collaboration

The evolution of shared governance in nursing reflects a broader shift in healthcare towards patient-centeredness and interprofessional collaboration.

Historically, nursing practice was often dictated by rigid hierarchies and top-down management styles.

Over time, nurses began to advocate for greater autonomy and control over their practice.

The emergence of shared governance models marked a turning point, empowering nurses to actively shape their professional environment and contribute to organizational decision-making.

Foundational Concepts: Key Components of Shared Governance Success

Shared governance in nursing represents a paradigm shift in healthcare administration, moving away from traditional hierarchical structures. It embraces a decentralized approach to decision-making, directly involving nurses in shaping their practice environment and influencing patient care outcomes. At its core, shared governance is about empowerment, decentralization, and a commitment to continuous improvement.

To truly grasp the essence of shared governance and ensure its successful implementation, it's crucial to understand the fundamental concepts upon which it rests. These concepts provide the groundwork for a robust and effective shared governance framework. The components include nursing empowerment, decentralized decision-making, a professional practice model, consideration of different shared governance models, evidence-based practice, continuous quality improvement, and patient safety.

Nursing Empowerment: The Cornerstone of Shared Governance

Nursing empowerment is the central tenet of shared governance. It goes beyond simply involving nurses in decision-making. It is about giving them real control and influence over their practice.

This includes their work environment, the standards of care they provide, and the overall direction of nursing services within the organization. Empowerment is not just a feeling; it's about providing nurses with the necessary resources, knowledge, and support to make informed decisions and advocate for their patients. It leads to increased job satisfaction, reduced burnout, and improved patient outcomes.

Decentralized Decision-Making: Distributing Authority

Decentralized decision-making is the operational engine of shared governance. Instead of decisions being made solely by nurse managers or administrators, the authority is distributed throughout the nursing structure. This allows nurses at all levels to participate in decisions that directly impact their practice.

Effective decentralization requires clear communication channels, well-defined roles and responsibilities, and a culture of trust and respect. It also necessitates providing nurses with the education and training needed to participate effectively in decision-making processes. This creates a more agile and responsive organization, capable of adapting to the evolving needs of patients and the healthcare environment.

Professional Practice Model (PPM): The Blueprint for Nursing Care

The Professional Practice Model (PPM) serves as the overarching framework for nursing care delivery within an organization. It articulates the values, beliefs, and goals that guide nursing practice. The PPM provides a structure for organizing and delivering care that is consistent with the organization's mission and values.

A well-defined PPM is essential for shared governance because it provides a foundation for nurse-led decision-making. It ensures that decisions are aligned with the organization's overall goals and that they are consistent with the values of the nursing profession. It is the philosophical and structural bedrock upon which shared governance operates.

Shared Governance Models: Choosing the Right Structure

Several shared governance models exist, each with its own strengths and weaknesses. The most common model is the council model, which typically includes councils focused on areas such as:

• Clinical Practice: Developing and implementing evidence-based guidelines.
• Quality: Monitoring and improving patient outcomes.
• Education: Providing ongoing professional development for nurses.
• Research: Promoting and supporting nursing research.

Other models include shared leadership models, where nurses and managers share decision-making authority, and self-governance models, where nurses have complete autonomy over their practice. The choice of model will depend on the organization's culture, size, and resources. It is crucial to carefully evaluate the pros and cons of each model before making a decision.

Evidence-Based Practice (EBP): Guiding Decisions with Research

Evidence-Based Practice (EBP) is the integration of the best available research evidence with clinical expertise and patient values to make informed decisions about patient care. In shared governance, EBP plays a critical role in ensuring that decisions are grounded in sound scientific evidence. Nurses are empowered to identify clinical problems, search for relevant research, and implement evidence-based solutions.

This integration of research and practice improves the quality of care and promotes innovation within the nursing profession. It ensures that nursing practice is constantly evolving and adapting to new knowledge and technologies.

Continuous Quality Improvement (CQI): A Cycle of Progress

Continuous Quality Improvement (CQI) is an ongoing effort to improve nursing care and patient outcomes. In shared governance, CQI is driven by nurse-led initiatives. Nurses are empowered to identify areas for improvement, develop and implement solutions, and monitor the impact of their interventions.

CQI is a cyclical process that involves planning, implementing, evaluating, and acting. It requires a commitment to data-driven decision-making and a willingness to continuously learn and adapt. It is a core principle of shared governance, ensuring that nursing practice is always moving towards excellence.

Patient Safety: The Paramount Priority

Patient safety is the overarching goal of all healthcare organizations. In shared governance, patient safety is a shared responsibility. Nurses are empowered to identify and address potential safety hazards, implement safety protocols, and advocate for their patients' well-being.

Shared governance promotes a culture of safety by encouraging open communication, reporting of errors, and a focus on learning from mistakes. It empowers nurses to speak up and raise concerns without fear of retribution. This creates a safer environment for patients and a more supportive environment for nurses.

Key Stakeholders and Their Roles: Building a Collaborative Team

Shared governance in nursing represents a paradigm shift in healthcare administration, moving away from traditional hierarchical structures. It embraces a decentralized approach to decision-making, directly involving nurses in shaping their practice environment and influencing patient outcomes. The success of this model hinges on the active participation and collaboration of various stakeholders, each playing a crucial role in fostering a culture of empowerment and shared responsibility. Understanding these roles is paramount to building a truly collaborative team.

Staff Nurses: The Heart of Shared Governance

Staff nurses are the primary beneficiaries and driving force behind shared governance. Their direct involvement in decision-making processes is essential for ensuring that policies and practices are aligned with the realities of patient care.

Empowering staff nurses means giving them a voice in decisions that directly impact their work. This includes input on clinical protocols, staffing models, and resource allocation.

Their perspectives, grounded in frontline experience, are invaluable for identifying areas for improvement and developing innovative solutions. Their participation fosters ownership and accountability, leading to increased job satisfaction and improved patient outcomes.

Staff nurses must be actively encouraged to participate in council meetings, share their insights, and champion evidence-based practice within their units. By actively participating, staff nurses become more engaged in their work.

Nurse Managers: Facilitators and Enablers

Nurse managers play a crucial role in facilitating shared governance at the unit level. They act as liaisons between staff nurses and organizational leadership, ensuring that the voices of frontline staff are heard and considered.

Their responsibilities include supporting staff participation in council meetings, removing barriers to shared decision-making, and promoting a culture of open communication and collaboration.

Effective nurse managers create a safe and supportive environment where staff nurses feel empowered to voice their opinions and challenge the status quo.

They also champion and celebrate successes that come from new practice changes, and reinforce why the changes are a positive.

They understand that shared governance is not about relinquishing authority but about empowering their team to make informed decisions that improve patient care.

Chief Nursing Officer (CNO): The Visionary Leader

The Chief Nursing Officer (CNO) is the executive leader responsible for championing shared governance throughout the organization. They provide the vision, resources, and support necessary to ensure its successful implementation and sustainability.

The CNO sets the tone for a culture of empowerment and collaboration, fostering a climate where nurses are valued as essential partners in improving patient care.

Their responsibilities include advocating for shared governance at the executive level, allocating resources to support council activities, and monitoring the effectiveness of shared governance initiatives. The CNO ensures that shared governance is an integral part of the organization's strategic plan.

The CNO is responsible for monitoring the successes and failures of new initiatives.

Council Chairs/Facilitators: Guiding the Process

Council chairs or facilitators are responsible for leading shared governance councils, ensuring their effective operation, and managing discussions. These individuals must possess strong leadership, communication, and facilitation skills.

Their primary role is to guide council meetings, ensuring that all members have the opportunity to contribute and that decisions are made in a fair and transparent manner.

They create agendas, manage discussions, and document decisions.

They also play a crucial role in fostering a culture of collaboration and respect within the council, ensuring that all voices are heard and valued.

They are responsible for keeping momentum within the group.

Interprofessional Collaboration: Expanding the Circle

Shared governance should not be confined to nursing alone. Interprofessional collaboration is essential for addressing complex healthcare challenges and improving patient outcomes. Including physicians, pharmacists, and other healthcare professionals in the shared governance structure can bring diverse perspectives and expertise to the table.

This collaborative approach can lead to more comprehensive and effective solutions that benefit patients, staff, and the organization as a whole.

For example, incorporating physician input into the clinical practice council can improve care by standardizing an interdisciplinary approach.

Pharmacists can offer insight into medication safety, physicians can offer insight into medical pathways, and physical therapists can offer insight into mobility-related practices.

By working together, healthcare professionals can create a more cohesive and collaborative care environment, one which is focused on the needs of the patient.

Implementation and Structure: Establishing a Framework for Shared Governance

Shared governance structures rely heavily on careful implementation. How these structures are constructed and enacted dramatically affects their overall effectiveness and acceptance by the nursing staff. This section will explore the core elements of establishing a successful shared governance framework, including the council structure, the role of bylaws and charters, decision-making processes, communication strategies, and methods for overcoming implementation challenges.

The Foundation: Council Structure and Function

The bedrock of shared governance is the council structure. These councils are designed to distribute decision-making authority across key areas of nursing practice. Common types of councils include:

• Clinical Practice Councils: These focus on developing and revising nursing policies, procedures, and standards of care.
• Quality Councils: These focus on initiatives aimed at enhancing patient safety and improving clinical outcomes.
• Education Councils: These focus on ensuring ongoing professional development and competency of nursing staff.
• Research & Evidence-Based Practice (EBP) Councils: These focus on promoting the integration of current evidence into practice.

Council formation should be strategic, based on the specific needs and priorities of the nursing staff and the organization as a whole. Each council requires a clearly defined purpose and scope to avoid overlap and confusion.

Governance Documents: Bylaws and Charters

Bylaws and charters are the essential documents that formally define the structure and function of each shared governance council. These documents provide clarity, ensure accountability, and guide the operation of the councils.

These documents typically include:

• The council's purpose and objectives.
• Membership criteria and selection processes.
• Roles and responsibilities of council members and leaders.
• Decision-making processes and voting procedures.
• Meeting schedules and communication protocols.
• Reporting relationships and lines of authority.

Without well-defined bylaws and charters, councils risk becoming ineffective and disorganized. Regularly reviewing and updating these documents is crucial to maintain relevance and effectiveness.

Transparent Decision-Making Processes

Transparency and inclusivity are the hallmarks of effective decision-making within shared governance. Decision-making processes should be clearly defined and consistently applied across all councils.

Key considerations include:

• Establishing clear voting procedures and quorum requirements.
• Ensuring that all council members have equal opportunities to voice their opinions and contribute to discussions.
• Using evidence-based practices and data to inform decisions.
• Documenting all decisions and the rationale behind them.

A culture of openness and respect is essential for fostering trust and encouraging participation in decision-making.

Communication is Key

Effective communication is vital for the success of shared governance. A well-defined communication strategy ensures that all nursing staff are informed about shared governance initiatives, decisions, and outcomes.

Effective communication strategies include:

• Regular council meetings that are open to all nursing staff.
• Posting meeting minutes and agendas in accessible locations.
• Utilizing email newsletters and other electronic communication channels.
• Creating a shared governance website or intranet page.
• Presenting updates on shared governance activities at staff meetings.

By keeping nursing staff informed and engaged, organizations can foster a sense of ownership and commitment to the shared governance process.

Overcoming Implementation Challenges

Implementing shared governance is not without its challenges. Resistance to change, lack of resources, and competing priorities can all hinder the process. Successfully navigating these challenges requires a proactive and strategic approach.

Strategies for overcoming implementation challenges include:

• Addressing resistance to change: Engaging key stakeholders early in the process and clearly communicating the benefits of shared governance.
• Securing adequate resources: Allocating sufficient time, funding, and personnel to support shared governance initiatives.
• Providing training and support: Equipping nursing staff with the skills and knowledge needed to participate effectively in shared governance.
• Celebrating successes: Recognizing and rewarding nurses for their contributions to shared governance.
• Continuous evaluation: Regular evaluations and adjustments of the shared governance process to ensure its ongoing effectiveness and relevance.

By anticipating and addressing potential challenges, organizations can increase the likelihood of a successful shared governance implementation.

Establishing a solid framework for shared governance involves a multifaceted approach. Addressing aspects such as well-defined councils, clear governing documents, transparent decision-making, strategic communication, and overcoming challenges will help to enhance the effectiveness of the overall nursing governance.

Tools and Resources: Supporting Shared Governance Initiatives

Shared governance structures rely heavily on careful implementation. How these structures are constructed and enacted dramatically affects their overall effectiveness and acceptance by the nursing staff. This section will explore the core elements of establishing a successful shared governance framework, emphasizing the critical tools and resources needed to sustain and enhance these initiatives. From meticulous record-keeping to robust communication strategies, we’ll examine how each component contributes to a more empowered and effective nursing environment.

Meeting Minutes and Agendas: Foundations of Accountability

Meeting minutes and agendas are the bedrock of effective shared governance. They serve as critical records of discussions, decisions, and action items that emerge from council meetings. A well-structured agenda, distributed in advance, ensures that participants come prepared, fostering focused and productive discussions.

Minutes, on the other hand, capture the essence of the meeting, including key points, dissenting opinions, and assigned responsibilities. These records are not merely administrative tasks; they are vital tools for accountability, ensuring that commitments are tracked and followed through.

Clear and concise meeting minutes provide a historical record that can be referenced for future decisions and onboarding new members. This continuity is essential for maintaining momentum and preventing the re-hashing of previously addressed issues.

Leveraging Surveys and Assessment Tools

To gauge the effectiveness of shared governance and pinpoint areas needing improvement, the utilization of surveys and assessment tools is paramount. These instruments can capture valuable feedback from nursing staff, providing insights into their perceptions of empowerment, engagement, and the overall impact of shared governance on their practice.

Regular assessments should evaluate both the processes of shared governance (e.g., council effectiveness, communication flow) and the outcomes (e.g., nurse satisfaction, patient safety indicators). Validated survey instruments, tailored to the specific goals of the organization, can offer quantitative data to support qualitative observations.

Analyzing the data collected from these surveys allows leadership to make informed decisions about resource allocation, process adjustments, and targeted interventions to strengthen the shared governance structure.

Establishing Effective Communication Platforms

Communication is the lifeblood of any successful shared governance initiative. Therefore, establishing diverse and accessible communication platforms is critical to ensuring that all nurses are informed and engaged.

This includes leveraging a variety of channels, such as:

• Newsletters: Regularly distributed newsletters can highlight council activities, share success stories, and provide updates on policy changes driven by shared governance.

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• Websites/Intranets: A dedicated section on the organization's website or intranet serves as a central repository for information about shared governance, including council charters, meeting schedules, and contact information.

• Social Media: Utilizing social media platforms can foster a sense of community and provide a forum for nurses to share ideas and connect with colleagues.

• Town Halls & Forums: Holding regular town hall meetings or open forums provides an opportunity for nurses to voice their concerns, ask questions, and engage in dialogue with leadership.

Consistent and transparent communication builds trust, increases participation, and ensures that all nurses feel valued and informed.

Orientation Programs: Investing in Understanding

The success of shared governance hinges on the understanding and participation of the nursing staff. This makes robust orientation programs essential. These programs should comprehensively introduce new nurses to the principles of shared governance, explaining its structure, processes, and the roles of various stakeholders.

Effective orientation should include:

• Clear explanations of the council structure and function.
• Opportunities for interactive learning and skill-building.
• Access to experienced mentors who can guide new nurses through the shared governance process.
• Ongoing educational resources to support continued learning.

Investing in thorough orientation programs demonstrates a commitment to shared governance and empowers nurses to actively participate in shaping their practice environment.

Evaluation Metrics: Measuring Impact and Driving Improvement

To ensure the long-term sustainability and effectiveness of shared governance, it is crucial to establish evaluation metrics that measure its impact on key organizational outcomes. These metrics should be aligned with the organization's strategic goals and provide concrete data to track progress and identify areas for improvement.

Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) to consider include:

• Patient Satisfaction Scores: Shared governance initiatives often aim to improve the patient experience, making patient satisfaction scores a valuable metric.
• Nurse Satisfaction and Retention Rates: Empowered nurses are more likely to be satisfied with their jobs and remain with the organization, making these important indicators of shared governance success.
• Quality Improvement Metrics: Track improvements in patient safety, infection rates, and other quality indicators that are influenced by nurse-led initiatives.
• Staff Engagement Scores: Measures how invested nurses are in their work and the organization, reflecting the impact of shared governance on their sense of ownership.

By tracking these metrics, organizations can demonstrate the value of shared governance, justify resource allocation, and continuously improve the structure to meet the evolving needs of nurses and patients.

Organizational Context: Shared Governance Across Healthcare Settings

Shared governance structures rely heavily on careful implementation. How these structures are constructed and enacted dramatically affects their overall effectiveness and acceptance by the nursing staff. This section will explore the core elements of establishing a successful shared governance model within diverse healthcare environments.

Shared Governance in Hospitals: A Hub for Nursing Empowerment

Hospitals represent the most frequent setting for the implementation of shared governance models. Within the complex, often high-stress environment of a hospital, shared governance offers a critical avenue for nursing empowerment.

It directly impacts patient care quality, nursing job satisfaction, and the overall efficiency of hospital operations.

Shared governance in hospitals allows nurses to directly influence policies and procedures that affect their daily practice. This can lead to:

• Improved patient outcomes: By incorporating frontline nurses’ insights, hospitals can create safer and more effective care protocols.

• Increased nurse retention: Nurses who feel valued and empowered are more likely to stay in their positions, reducing costly turnover.

• Enhanced interdisciplinary collaboration: Shared governance fosters a culture of teamwork and open communication between nurses and other healthcare professionals.

Challenges in the Hospital Setting

Implementing shared governance in a hospital setting can present unique challenges. Large, hierarchical organizational structures may impede decentralization.

Furthermore, deeply ingrained cultures resistant to change require persistent and well-planned strategies.

Overcoming these challenges requires strong leadership commitment, robust communication strategies, and ongoing education to foster buy-in from all stakeholders.

Shared Governance in Clinics: Adapting the Model for Ambulatory Care

While often associated with hospital settings, shared governance is equally valuable in clinics and other ambulatory care environments.

In these settings, nurses often work more autonomously and may have closer relationships with patients and their families.

• Increased patient satisfaction: Nurses in clinics can use shared governance to tailor care to the specific needs of their patient population.

• Improved efficiency: Streamlining processes and workflows can enhance clinic operations, reducing wait times and improving patient throughput.

• Stronger community relationships: Nurses can use shared governance to develop programs and initiatives that address the health needs of the local community.

Unique Opportunities in Clinics

Clinics offer the opportunity to implement innovative shared governance models that are specifically tailored to the unique needs of ambulatory care.

For instance, nurses can lead initiatives to improve chronic disease management, promote preventive care, and enhance patient education.

However, limited resources and staff in some clinics may pose challenges to implementing comprehensive shared governance structures.

Academic Institutions: Shaping Future Nurse Leaders

Integrating shared governance into nursing schools is crucial for preparing future nurses for collaborative and empowered practice.

By involving students in decision-making processes related to curriculum development, clinical experiences, and student life, academic institutions can:

• Foster a culture of leadership: Students learn to advocate for themselves, their patients, and their profession.

• Promote critical thinking: Students develop the skills necessary to analyze complex healthcare issues and propose innovative solutions.

• Enhance engagement: Students are more invested in their education when they have a voice in shaping their learning environment.

The Role of Faculty

Faculty members play a crucial role in modeling shared governance principles and mentoring students. They must create opportunities for students to participate in meaningful decision-making and provide guidance on how to effectively advocate for their ideas.

The Magnet Recognition Program: A Benchmark for Nursing Excellence

The American Nurses Credentialing Center’s (ANCC) Magnet Recognition Program recognizes healthcare organizations that demonstrate excellence in nursing services.

Shared governance is a cornerstone of the Magnet model, as it demonstrates a commitment to empowering nurses and fostering a culture of professional autonomy.

Organizations seeking Magnet designation must demonstrate that nurses have a significant voice in decision-making related to patient care, quality improvement, and organizational policies.

The Impact of Magnet Designation

Magnet designation has been linked to several positive outcomes, including:

• Higher nurse satisfaction and retention rates.
• Improved patient outcomes.
• Enhanced organizational performance.

By embracing shared governance and pursuing Magnet recognition, healthcare organizations can create a positive and empowering environment for nurses, ultimately leading to better care for patients.

Professional Standards and Guidelines: Ethical and Legal Considerations

Shared governance structures rely heavily on careful implementation. How these structures are constructed and enacted dramatically affects their overall effectiveness and acceptance by the nursing staff. This section will explore the core elements of establishing a successful shared governance framework, rooted in professional standards, ethical principles, and legal boundaries.

The American Nurses Association (ANA) and its Influence

The American Nurses Association (ANA) stands as a cornerstone of the nursing profession, providing essential guidance and resources that significantly impact shared governance initiatives. The ANA's role extends beyond mere membership; it shapes the ethical and professional landscape within which nurses operate.

The ANA Code of Ethics for Nurses is a pivotal document. It offers a framework for ethical decision-making. This code provides a moral compass. It guides nurses' actions in complex situations encountered in shared governance.

The ANA also publishes position statements and resources directly relevant to shared governance. These materials offer insights into best practices, advocacy, and leadership development. They provide nurses with the knowledge and tools necessary to participate effectively in decision-making processes.

Understanding Scope of Practice within Shared Governance

Scope of Practice is a critical legal concept. It defines the boundaries of what nurses are legally authorized to do. Shared governance activities must always align with these defined limits. Violations can lead to legal repercussions.

Shared governance empowers nurses to influence practice standards. However, it does not grant them the authority to exceed their legally defined scope. It is essential to ensure that decisions made through shared governance mechanisms adhere to state nurse practice acts and regulatory guidelines.

Patient Advocacy: A Central Tenet

Patient advocacy is a fundamental ethical responsibility of all nurses. Shared governance provides a powerful platform for nurses to champion patient needs and ensure their voices are heard in organizational decision-making.

Nurses participating in shared governance councils can advocate for policies and practices that prioritize patient safety, quality of care, and patient rights. This includes addressing systemic issues that may negatively impact patient outcomes. It involves ensuring equitable access to resources and culturally sensitive care.

Navigating Ethical Dilemmas in Nursing Practice

Ethical dilemmas are unavoidable in nursing. Shared governance provides a structured mechanism for addressing these complex situations. Ethical frameworks, such as the principle of beneficence (doing good), non-maleficence (avoiding harm), autonomy (respecting patient choices), and justice (fairness), offer guidance in navigating these dilemmas.

Ethics committees or councils within a shared governance structure can provide a forum for discussing ethical concerns, analyzing different courses of action, and reaching morally sound decisions. These committees help to ensure that ethical considerations are integrated into all aspects of nursing practice. They ensure considerations are fully realized and fairly implemented.

So, that's nursing shared governance in a nutshell for 2024! Hopefully, this guide gives you a clearer understanding of what is nursing shared governance and how it empowers nurses to shape their practice and improve patient outcomes. Now go out there and be a part of the change!