Final answer:
In an emergency at a local factory, autocratic leadership is most effective due to the need for quick decisions and centralized control.
Step-by-step explanation:
In the scenario of an explosion at a local factory, where quick action and centralized coordination are crucial, the most effective type of nursing leadership would be autocratic leadership. This leadership style is characterized by individual control over all decisions with minimal input from group members. Autocratic leaders issue orders and assign tasks with a primary focus on meeting goals efficiently and responding rapidly to emergencies. In contrast, democratic leadership, which involves group participation in decision-making, would be too slow in such a critical situation. Laissez-faire leadership, which is hands-off, would fail to provide the necessary immediate direction and control needed. Referent power, which is based on followers' identification and liking for the leader, may not result in the decisive and quick actions required in an emergency.