Perceptions of the impacts of introducing administrative support for nurse unit managers: A qualitative evaluation

Abstract

Aim: To evaluate the impacts of introducing administrative support for nurse unit managers (NUMs). Background: Increased administrative load for NUMs is causing role stress and reducing opportunities for clinical leadership (State‐wide Review, Queensland, Australia). In response, a health organisation implemented a clerical ‘NUM Support Officer' (NSO) position. Methods: Qualitative descriptive evaluation, convenience sample (37 NUMs and NSOs), focus groups (13) provided data that was thematically analysed (guided by Braun and Clarke's framework). Results: Six impacts were identified: 1) improved NUM wellbeing; 2) more time to undertake clinical leadership; 3) greater efficiencies in finance, payroll and HR processes; 4) improved capacity for strategic leadership; 5) increased staff satisfaction and improved unit culture; and 6) improved succession planning. Conclusion: Findings reveal significant gains and benefits from the introduction of administrative support for the NUM role for the NUMs and the units they manage. Implications for nursing management: NUM role stress can negatively impact organisational climate, performance outcomes, and staff satisfaction and retention. Health organisations need to implement strategies to reduce the administrative burden for NUMs. The introduction of administrative support frees up time for NUMs to engage in clinical leadership, positively impacting organisational climate, performance outcomes, and staff satisfaction and retention.