What is meant by shared governance in nursing?

Shared governance in nursing refers to a collaborative decision-making model where nurses at all levels have a voice in the policies and practices that affect their work and the care they provide to patients. This approach empowers staff nurses by involving them in crucial decisions, fostering a sense of ownership and accountability in their professional practice.

Through shared governance, nurses can contribute their expertise, insights, and experiences, promoting a more effective and patient-centered approach to care. This model enhances job satisfaction and improves team dynamics, as nurses feel valued and engaged in the decision-making processes that impact their roles.

In contrast, a top-down decision-making model, where decisions are made solely by management, fails to incorporate the perspectives of frontline staff. Similarly, a structure that minimizes staff input undermines the collaborative essence that is core to shared governance, and a model where management makes all decisions does not leverage the unique knowledge and skills that nurses bring to the table.