This textbook presents to Canadian nursing students a current, research-based understanding of theory and development aimed at professional nursing competencies. It provides leadership insights rich in self-reflection to serve as the foundation for the development of the knowledge, competencies, and positive attitudes required for leadership. Related to the business of health care, the textbook provides an overview of the knowledge base and the set of competencies required of a nurse manager to deliver effective clinical health services. New nurse graduates will continually experience challenges resulting from dramatic technological development and rapid restructuring of the healthcare delivery system. This textbook helps to ensure that future nurse leaders are both knowledgeable about, and proficient in, the effective leadership practices they will need to meet these challenges. In addition, this textbook helps to prepare the nursing student to challenge the Canadian Registered Nurse Examination (CRNE).