Shared leadership is characterized by what key feature?

Shared leadership is characterized by interchangeable leadership responsibilities among team members. This approach enhances collaboration, as team members are encouraged to take initiative and contribute their unique skills and insights. In a shared leadership model, authority and decision-making processes are distributed rather than concentrated in a single individual. This fosters an environment where diverse perspectives can flourish and promotes collective problem-solving.

By allowing team members to step into leadership roles as appropriate, shared leadership encourages engagement, empowerment, and adaptability, which are essential in dynamic healthcare settings. Team members have the ability to lead based on their expertise and situational needs, leading to more innovative solutions and improved team cohesion. This characteristic contrasts sharply with the other options that describe more traditional, hierarchical, and isolated leadership structures, which do not leverage the strengths and capabilities of all team members.