Courage, leadership, and end-of-life care: when courage counts.

As leaders, we must feel a sense of moral obligation to implement evidence about end-of-life care in our practice setting. Nurse leaders can help patients and families orchestrate a beautiful experience that is an alternative to futile, expensive end-of-life care. Preparation is key in helping staff provide the best level of care. A plan built around the best care for patients can integrate with many diverse positions and people. Courageous nurse leaders are well adapted to maneuvering through political traps and advocating for patients and their families. Everyone benefits personally and financially, including our communities and nation, when courageous leaders advocate successfully for effective end-of-life care.