Understanding and championing the merger process: key leadership roles for successful outcomes.

Mergers can effectively achieve both financial results and enhancements of quality. The nurse executive plays a vital role in the success of merger activities and has the opportunity to emerge as one of the leaders of the process. A systems approach to cost, quality, and service must be captured for successful merger outcomes to occur. But, in order for the nurse executive to be effective, he or she must understand and champion the merger process, critical roles, and challenges during the merger as well as use efficient communication methods to work effectively with physicians, reporting staff, and hired consultants.