While providing feedback to staff, which leadership style is the nurse leader using when warning an employee about needing to improve performance?

The nurse leader is using the autocratic leadership style when warning an employee about the need to improve performance. This style is characterized by a directive approach where the leader makes decisions unilaterally and expects compliance from team members. In this scenario, by directly addressing the employee's performance shortfall and emphasizing the need for improvement, the nurse leader assumes control over the situation and provides clear directives on what is expected.

Autocratic leadership is often effective in situations requiring immediate action or when performance issues need to be addressed firmly. It allows the leader to set standards and expectations explicitly, which can be particularly beneficial in a healthcare environment where compliance with protocols and quality of care are crucial.

The other leadership styles, such as situational, democratic, and laissez-faire, typically involve greater levels of employee input, collaboration, or flexibility, which would not align as closely with a straightforward warning regarding performance issues.