Delineation of the Nursing Supervisor Role: A Pilot Study
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Published on: June 21, 2010
Amy Glasofer1, Anne Bertino Lapinsky
1Author Affiliations: Nurse Scientist (Dr Glasofer), Virtua, Mt Laurel; and Advanced Nurse Clinician (Ms Lapinsky), Virtua Voorhees, Voorhees, New Jersey.
Objective:
The purpose of this study was to describe a sample of nursing supervisors and their work.
Background:
The role of the nursing supervisor is not well understood. The supervisor population is poorly defined, as are their ideal academic preparation and work activities.
Methods:
This study followed the American Nurses Credentialing Center® framework for role delineation studies. A convenience sample of 50 nursing supervisors from New Jersey was recruited to complete an online survey including demographic data and prioritization of work activities.
Results:
Participants represented a homogeneous and aging workforce with diverse professional preparation. Exploratory factor analysis revealed 6 categories of nurse supervisor work including administrative presence, leadership liaison, patient safety and experience, patient care advocacy, throughput, and external response. Work activities were prioritized.
Conclusions:
Nurse supervisors prioritized responding to emergencies above all other responsibilities. This study should be replicated in a nationwide sample of nurse supervisors.
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