This document discusses leadership in nursing and defines leadership as the ability to influence others through relationships. It lists 20 qualities of an effective leader including honesty, intelligence, respect, service, compassion, strong morals, courage, humility and skills in communication. Characteristics of an effective nurse leader are assuming leadership, planning work, providing direction, monitoring work, recognizing staff, and representing administration. The document also compares leadership styles such as autocratic, democratic, laissez-faire and bureaucratic in terms of freedom, control, decision making, activity level and responsibility.