skills for transparency to better fulfill the definition of nurse management.

In the realm of healthcare, transparency has several meanings. For patients, transparency includes understanding treatment options, risks and costs. For healthcare providers, transparency includes providing as much information as possible to allow for appropriate care with safety in mind. Transparent nursing leadership is a building block for trust.

The Harvard Business Review said transparency in healthcare leadership also leads to happier staff members and better patient outcomes.

“The most effective way to build a culture of transparency begins with those in leadership positions,” Dr. Gary S. Kaplan, chairman and CEO of the Virginia Mason Health System in Seattle, said in “Building a Culture of Transparency in Health Care.” “It is the responsibility of the leadership team to develop an atmosphere in which there is balanced accountability and continuous improvement, and this is everyone’s shared duty. Leaders must lead by example.”

Registered nurses (RNs) who are pursuing advanced leadership positions must learn about and demonstrate transparency to improve healthcare outcomes. RNs who earn a DNP degree, including from an online DNP program, develop essential skills for transparency to better fulfill the definition of nurse management.