Beyond the classroom to coaching: preparing new nurse managers.

Area of Science:

• Healthcare Management
• Nursing Leadership
• Organizational Psychology

Background:

• Frontline nurse managers are crucial for healthcare success, acting as key interfaces between diverse stakeholders.
• Despite the role's importance, new nurse managers often lack adequate formal preparation and practical support.
• Existing preceptor models may be insufficient due to time constraints and lack of formal training for preceptors.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the effectiveness of an intensive, on-site coaching program for newly appointed nurse managers.
• To determine if experienced nurse executive coaching improves confidence and practical skill acquisition in nurse managers.
• To address the gap in formal preparation and practical support for frontline nurse managers.

Main Methods:

• Implementation of a 4-month on-site coaching program at Bryn Mawr Hospital, a Magnet-designated facility.
• Engagement of an experienced nurse executive to provide direct coaching to new nurse managers.
• Qualitative feedback collection from program participants regarding their experience and perceived benefits.

Main Results:

• Participants reported that face-to-face coaching was the most critical element of the program.
• The presence of a seasoned coach provided a safe space for new managers to ask questions they otherwise wouldn't.
• The program successfully enhanced new nurse managers' confidence and ability to apply learned concepts.

Conclusions:

• On-site, experienced nurse executive coaching is a highly effective strategy for onboarding new nurse managers.
• Structured coaching significantly boosts new managers' confidence and facilitates the practical application of leadership skills.
• Healthcare organizations should consider implementing robust coaching programs to support critical frontline management roles.