Comparing Professional Values and Authentic Leadership Dimensions in Baccalaureate Nursing Students: A Longitudinal Study

Background: A series of three baccalaureate Nursing Leadership and Patient-Centered Care (NLPCC) courses were developed to strengthen students' perceptions and preparation as leaders in the delivery of patient-centered care through more effective professional socialization. Method: A mixed-methods design was used, administering two surveys to students at the start of the junior year and the end of their senior year, plus two qualitative questions were administered after the second-semester junior and senior years. Results: Qualitative data reflected a growing awareness of the professional nurse's role and responsibilities beyond the bedside. Graduating senior students demonstrated a heightened awareness for the socialization and realities of practice and a growing sense of readiness and empowerment to embrace the professional role of an RN. Conclusion: Through role modeling, scripted conversations, and focused dialogue, the infusion of knowledge, skills, and attitudes from the Quality and Safety Education for Nurses competencies allowed students to hone their socialization skills prior to entering the workforce.