Final answer:
The nurse leader should exclude effective communication while addressing complex issues of the hospital.
Step-by-step explanation:
Out of the given options, the characteristic that the nurse leader should exclude while addressing complex issues of the hospital is A) Effective communication. Although effective communication is usually an important skill for managers, in complex situations, it may be necessary for the nurse leader to temporarily exclude this characteristic to prioritize other aspects of problem-solving and decision-making. Empathy (C) is important for understanding and connecting with the staff and patients, problem-solving skills (B) are crucial for finding solutions to complex issues, and decision-making ability (D) is essential for making informed and strategic choices.