Nurses' preparation for transitioning into positions of leadership—A Caribbean perspective. (4th August 2020)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Ocho, Oscar Noel; Wheeler, Erica; Sheppard, Claudine; Caesar‐Greasley, Lu‐Ann; Rigby, Janet; Tomblin Murphy, Gail
• Is Part Of: Journal of nursing management. Volume 28:Number 6(2020)
• Page Start: 1356
• Page End: 1363
• Publication Date: 2020-08-04
• Subjects: mentorship -- nursing leadership -- organisational development -- succession planning -- transitioning; Nursing services -- Administration -- Periodicals; Nursing services -- Business management -- Periodicals; 610.73068
• DOI: 10.1111/jonm.13089
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0966-0429

Abstract

Abstract: Aim: To explore perspectives of nurse managers about their preparation for transitioning into positions of leadership. Background: There have been serious concerns about the level of preparation as well as availability of support systems for transitioning of nurses into positions of authority. Methods: This was a quantitative study conducted in four Caribbean countries targeting nurses promoted to leadership positions within the last 5 years. Data were collected using a 30‐item questionnaire. Ethical approvals were received from the University of the West Indies and the participating countries. Results: Most participants were female, had 15 or more years' experience and an associate degree/diploma in nursing. They felt prepared through training and acting opportunities although many were not preceptored/mentored into the position. Preparation by training was positively correlated to acting opportunities, preceptorship programme and having a preceptor. Conclusion: Transitioning into positions of leadership requires readiness from a personal as well as an organisational perspective. There must be investment in the development opportunities to support nurses' transition into leadership positions. Implications for Nursing Management: Organisational continuity and effectiveness will be dependent on a balance between investing in experienced nursing personnel while encouraging personal development of less‐experienced nurses. Peer mentorship must be utilized to facilitate nurse transition.