Leadership, Delegation, and Team Collaboration in a Staffing Shortage As a nurse leader, managing a team effectively during staffing shortages is critical to ensuring patient safety and quality care. In this scenario, you’ll be asked to reflect on leadership, delegation, and teamwork strategies during a high-pressure shift. Scenario: You are the charge nurse on a busy medical-surgical unit during a typical morning shift. The unit is full, with a patient population ranging from post-operative recoveries to those with chronic conditions requiring complex care. Your team includes: Licensed Practical Nurses (LPNs) Certified Nursing Assistants (CNAs) Nursing students You are responsible for: Assigning patient care Ensuring patient safety and satisfaction Coordinating with the interdisciplinary care team Supporting and supervising your staff However, a senior LPN calls in sick just before the shift starts, leaving a staffing gap on an already full unit. Discussion Questions: In your initial post, address the following: Assess the impact of the LPN’s unexpected absence: How might it affect patient care, team workload, and morale? What are the potential safety and communication challenges? Describe how you would delegate and redistribute responsibilities among the remaining staff: What specific tasks might be reassigned, and to whom? How would you ensure no team member is overwhelmed? Explain what factors you would consider when assigning duties to CNAs, LPNs (if others are available), and nursing students: How do you match tasks to scope of practice, competency, and experience? Discuss strategies to foster teamwork, communication, and collaboration during this busy shift: How would you lead a quick team huddle or check-in? How would you involve the team in real-time problem-solving if unexpected issues arise?