Understanding effective nurse leadership styles during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Leadership is central to effective nursing practice and is considered to be particularly important during crises such as the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic. This article examines several leadership styles that are commonly used in healthcare - namely the transactional, transformational and laissez-faire leadership styles - and considers their advantages and disadvantages in the context of the COVID-19 pandemic. It also explains the potential benefits of compassionate leadership in supporting the nursing workforce during this highly challenging and stressful period.