What is an essential attribute nurses must develop as coaches?

An essential attribute for nurses to develop as coaches is intuition and judgment. This quality allows nurses to assess situations holistically, understand patients' needs, and respond appropriately. Intuition helps in recognizing subtle cues from clients that may not be explicitly stated, enabling a deeper connection and enhancing the coaching relationship. Good judgment assists in making sound decisions that prioritize the client's wellbeing, taking into account their individual circumstances, values, and preferences.

While technical skills are important in nursing, they are not the primary focus during coaching, where the emphasis shifts toward empowering clients and facilitating behavior change. Financial management and psychological testing, though they may have relevance in some healthcare contexts, are not core attributes needed for effective coaching. Therefore, developing intuition and judgment is critical for nurses to be effective coaches, allowing them to provide support that is both empathetic and informed.