Filling the Knowledge Gap for Nurse Leaders: Next Steps Following COVID-19

Area of Science:

• Nursing
• Public Health
• Healthcare Management

Background:

• The COVID-19 pandemic exposed significant challenges in healthcare systems globally.
• Effective pandemic management requires robust research and identified knowledge gaps.
• Nurse leaders' perspectives are crucial for understanding frontline pandemic response needs.

Purpose of the Study:

• To identify and categorize research gaps in pandemic management from the perspective of nurse leaders.
• To inform future research priorities for enhancing pandemic preparedness and response.

Main Methods:

• A Delphi study methodology was employed.
• Nurse leaders responded to an open-ended question regarding post-pandemic research needs.
• Directed content analysis was used to analyze qualitative responses.

Main Results:

• Four major supercategories of research gaps emerged: Organizational leadership preparedness, adaptive leadership in crisis, innovations in care delivery, and health, well-being, and resilience.
• Specific gaps were identified within each supercategory, reflecting the multifaceted nature of pandemic challenges.

Conclusions:

• Addressing these identified research gaps is essential for strengthening future pandemic management strategies.
• Future research should focus on leadership development, adaptive strategies, innovative care models, and supporting healthcare worker well-being.
• This study provides a framework for prioritizing research in nursing and healthcare management for pandemic preparedness.