The Nurse Leader's Role:: A Conduit for Professional Identity Formation and Sustainability

Abstract

The development of professional identity in nursing (PIN) is essential to the education, advancement, and brand image of nursing, and to demonstrate the impact on patients’ health and well-being. Unfortunately, the construct of PIN has not been well-established. To further shape and distinguish the concept, 3 think tanks were held between 2018 and 2020, resulting in the recognition that nursing leadership is a primary conduit to influence PIN. How leaders role model, improve practice environments, and foster lifelong learning greatly contributes to the formation and sustainability of the professional identity of nurses and the next generation of leaders.