A study of the training criteria of effectiveness of two grades of nurse managers

Abstract

The many changes which have taken place within the organisational structure of both the nursing service and the National Health Service have led to uncertainty about role. The purpose of the research was to assist in clarifying the role of nurse managers through a study of the criteria of effectiveness and training available to improve effectiveness levels, and for this purpose the grades of sister and nursing officer were studied. In any given year many nurses within the Northern Region of the National Health Service attend management training programmes. It was therefore decided to use the course members on these programmes as the only sample within the available time which would enable the researcher to study the following:- (i) nurses' perception of their role (ii) nurses’ perception of training needs (iii) nurses’ assessment of the extent to which current courses met their training needs (iv) nurses’ assessment of the extent to which their standard of work had improved through their ability to apply what was learned to the working situation. Effectiveness of nurse managers was not defined in documents relating to role and a study of literature provided a framework within which to study the role of nurse managers and suggest areas in which to assess whether effective management is being achieved. Discussion took place with staff on the acceptability of using a working group within which to make judgements about effectiveness. A model was prepared to test the possibility of using flexibility (used in an unanticipated situation) as a specific criteria of effectiveness. In the light of literature studied, results of questionnaires and discussion, consideration was given to whether present training for nurse managers requires modification or whether new approaches to management training are necessary or desirable.