Exploring the Competencies of First-Line Nurse Managers: A Study at a Regional Hospital, Ridge – Accra
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Date
2018-07
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Publisher
University Of Ghana
Abstract
First-line nurse managers (FLNMs) play an essential role in the healthcare environment; ensuring the realization of organizational goals. The duties of the FLNM have expanded and requires the acquisition of specific competencies to be successful in the role. Many quantitative studies have categorized several competencies that nurse managers must be proficient in. Many FLNMs feel less prepared for this role and tend to drift towards what they know best. The descriptive qualitative approach was used to explore the competencies of FLNMs in managing the ward at the Greater Accra Regional Hospital (GARH) as study participants. Eleven (11) FLNMs were purposively selected from the wards and interviewed using a semi-structured interview guide. The study was guided by the Nurse Manager Leadership Partnership Domain framework (NMLP). The framework has three (3) main themes with fifteen (15) sub-themes. Data was analysed using thematic analysis. First-line nurse managers have strong competencies in the human resource management, logistic management, and clinical expertise. The leadership style of FLNMs is exemplary towards transformational leadership type. The leadership traits of the FLNMs were developed through an informal mentoring and coaching systems in the ward. Potential leaders identified are drawn close to the FLNM and given extra responsibilities without communicating the motive to them. Experience and hard work play a significant role in appointment. Leadership or management is not a career plan for nurses and most nurses reach leadership position unplanned or accidentally. Nurses should be adequately prepared to develop positive experiences that are relevant to the role of the FLNM.
Description
MPhil.
Keywords
First-Line Nurse Managers, Regional Hospital, Ridge, Accra