Nurse leaders' changing roles over 25 years: a qualitative study

Area of Science:

• Healthcare Management
• Nursing Leadership
• Organizational Dynamics

Background:

• The evolution of nursing leadership roles over 25 years presents unique challenges.
• Increasing organizational complexity and staff growth impact nurse manager responsibilities.

Purpose of the Study:

• To highlight the experiences of nurse managers regarding their changing roles over a 25-year career span.
• To understand how long-serving nurse managers perceive their professional development and adaptation.

Main Methods:

• Qualitative study utilizing individual interviews.
• Inclusion of eight nurse managers with over 25 years of experience in specialist and primary healthcare in Norway and Finland.

Main Results:

• Nurse managers possess extensive knowledge and have developed advanced conflict-resolution methods.
• Role evolution from bedside care to administrative duties reflects organizational expansion and increased complexity.
• Managers demonstrate adaptability, managing new challenges and societal developments over their careers.

Conclusions:

• Nurse managers with over 25 years of experience are well-equipped to handle evolving healthcare landscapes.
• Their career progression illustrates a development from novice to expert leadership, demonstrating significant personal and organizational adaptation.