Final answer:
The nurse has the connection source of power by having relationships with influential individuals. The highest form of political power is legitimacy, transcending individual authority and underscoring the acceptance by those governed.
Step-by-step explanation:
The staff nurse in question appears to possess the connection source of power. This type of power comes from forming alliances with influential individuals within an organization or field. In this scenario, the nurse's power comes not necessarily from expertise, legal authority, or the ability to give rewards, but from the personal relationship with high-ranking officials within the hospital.
When it comes to the highest form of political power, legitimacy is often considered the supreme authority. This is because legitimacy implies a general acceptance and recognition of the authority by those governed, which is crucial for the stability and effectiveness of any political system or leader. This concept of legitimacy transcends the individual who holds an office, like a president, and speaks to the underlying acceptance of the authority of the position.