Abstract
This article addresses the issue of clinical leadership and how it
is defined. The concepts and definitions of clinical leadership are
considered as well as the results of new research that suggests that
clinical leaders can be seen as experts in their field, and because
they are approachable and are effective communicators, are
empowered to act as a role model, motivating others by matching
their values and beliefs about nursing and care to their practice.
This is supported by a new leadership theory, congruent leadership,
proposed as the most appropriate leadership theory to support an
understanding of clinical leadership. Congruent leaders (clinical
nurse leaders) are followed because there is a match between the
leader’s values and beliefs and their actions.
Key words: Leadership n Models and theories n Nursing: role