The findings of this study extend the findings of earlier
field investigations using a structural empowerment
approach by indicating rural nurse leaders’ perception
of having a moderate level of empowerment, sufficient
access to information and a perceived high level of
formal power. The study confirms the need for robust
theory development to support and promote viable
nursing leadership for the future (Cummings et al.
2008). Additional research is necessary to develop
knowledge that will effectively underpin strategies to
inform the leadership practices of rural nurse leaders.
Research that focuses on the concepts of structural
empowerment: