Comparing work satisfaction in two case management models

Case management by professional nurses is expanding rapidly in managed care systems, but little is known about the quality of working life of nurse case managers (NCMs). This study explores the relationships among control over nursing practice, job stress and work satisfaction among NCMs and compares NCMs in a "within-the-walls" model with those in a "beyond-the-walls" model of nursing case management. Results of this small descriptive study suggest that NCMs perceived a relatively high degree of control over their practice and work satisfaction as well as a relatively low degree of job stress.