Caballero, Benedicto II San Diego
MAN-J
Activity 1: Reflection on how strategic management can address
challenges in the healthcare industry particularly in nursing practice
Strategic management is a crucial process in organizational leadership,
defined as the systematic approach to setting goals and implementing
strategies to achieve an organization’s vision. It involves five key stages:
identifying goals, conducting a SWOT analysis, creating a strategy,
implementing the strategy, and evaluating results. However, the
effectiveness of strategic management varies depending on the
organization’s type, objectives, and the challenges it faces.
In nursing practice, strategic management plays a big role in addressing
various challenges, particularly workforce shortages, unclear role definitions,
and inefficient policy implementation. One of the most pressing issues in
nursing practice is role ambiguity. Many nurses, especially those in advanced
roles, face unclear job descriptions and a lack of standardized policies
outlining their scope of practice. This lack of clarity can result in decreased
efficiency, increased job-related stress, and overall dissatisfaction among
nurses. Strategic management can help resolve this issue by developing and
implementing policies that clearly define nursing roles, responsibilities, and
reporting mechanisms. By establishing well-defined roles, healthcare
organizations can improve workflow efficiency and reduce confusion among
nursing professionals.
Moreover, strategic management facilitates the effective implementation of
healthcare policies by involving key stakeholders at various levels. Engaging
nurses, hospital administrators, and policymakers in the decision-making
process ensures that policies are practical, realistic, and aligned with the
needs of healthcare providers and patients. When strategic management is
applied effectively, it fosters a culture of collaboration and accountability,
leading to more efficient healthcare delivery.
Another critical function of strategic management in nursing is its ability to
help healthcare institutions adapt to the ever-changing healthcare
landscape. The healthcare industry is constantly evolving due to
advancements in medical technology, changes in patient demographics, and
emerging healthcare challenges such as pandemics and chronic disease
management. Through strategic planning, nursing leaders can anticipate
potential challenges and proactively develop strategies to address them. This
proactive approach ensures that nursing professionals are well-prepared to
navigate changes and continue delivering high-quality patient care.
Furthermore, strategic management strengthens nursing leadership by
encouraging nurses to take an active role in policy discussions and decision-
making. Studies indicate that many nurses are not significantly involved in
policymaking, leading to decisions that do not fully reflect the realities of
clinical practice. By empowering nurses to contribute their insights and
expertise, strategic management fosters a more inclusive and responsive
healthcare system. Nursing leaders who engage in strategic planning can
advocate for policies that enhance patient care, improve working conditions,
and promote professional growth among nurses.
In conclusion, strategic management is a vital tool in addressing challenges
within nursing practice. By defining clear roles, ensuring effective policy
implementation, adapting to changes, and promoting nursing leadership,
strategic management contributes to a more efficient, sustainable, and
patient-centered healthcare system. Implementing strategic management
principles in nursing practice not only enhances the work environment for
nurses but also leads to better healthcare outcomes for patients and the
broader community.
