Strengthening Nursing Practice through NURS FPX 4010 Assessments 1 and 2

In the journey of professional nursing, self-assessment and strategic goal-setting play a crucial role in continuous improvement. The NURS FPX 4010 course, centered on leading people, processes, and organizations, begins with two essential assessments that set the stage for growth in leadership, communication, and clinical decision-making.

Assessment 1: Self-Assessment of Leadership and Collaborative Skills

NURS FPX 4010 Assessment 1 challenges students to evaluate their own strengths and weaknesses in leadership and interprofessional collaboration. This isn’t just a reflective task—it’s a purposeful activity that encourages nurses to align their professional behaviors with leadership theories and nursing competencies.

Students use tools like the StrengthsFinder or similar self-assessment frameworks to identify their leadership traits. This insight helps them pinpoint how they currently function within teams, communicate with colleagues, and contribute to organizational goals.

Importantly, this assessment fosters self-awareness. Understanding one’s leadership style is the first step toward developing the ability to manage conflict, inspire teams, and lead change in complex healthcare environments.

Assessment 2: Creating SMART Goals for Improvement

Building on the insight gained in Assessment 1, NURS FPX 4010 Assessment 2 guides students to craft SMART goals—Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Time-bound. These goals are based on the weaknesses or growth areas identified in the first assessment.

For example, a nurse who recognizes a need to improve team communication might set a SMART goal around participating in leadership rounds or enrolling in a communication workshop within a set timeframe. The idea is to create a clear roadmap for professional development that is both practical and aligned with nursing best practices.

This assessment reinforces accountability, planning, and ongoing reflection—three pillars of successful leadership in nursing.

Together: Building Leadership Confidence

When paired, Assessments 1 and NURS FPX 4010 Assessment 2  help nurses move from awareness to action. By identifying personal leadership traits and setting goals for improvement, students begin to shape themselves into nurse leaders who can make informed decisions, collaborate effectively, and contribute to high-quality patient outcomes.