In speaking to people all over the country, I hear that they are struggling to implement healthy work environments. Although everyone wants to work in a healthy work environment, leaders still struggle to create one. Some of the most recent barriers that have been shared with me during the past year have been lack of leadership support, poor collaboration and communication, inadequate staffing, lack of accountability, and lack of meaningful recognition. Here I report the concerns I have heard and give some examples of what can be done to minimize these barriers.

Leadership support is an important factor in improving the work environment. The leader must not only act as a role model, but must also hold others accountable for their behavior. Many nurse managers are promoted because of their clinical skills and have not been given appropriate education in the leadership and management aspects of the job. Addressing staff...

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