Evaluation of a clinical leadership programme for nurse leaders

Abstract

Aim- This is an evaluation study of the impact of the adapted RCN Clinical Leadership Programme on the development of leadership competencies of nurse leaders in Switzerland.

Background- Transformational leadership competencies are essential for delivering high-quality care within health-care organizations. However, many countries have identified a lack of leadership skills in nurse leaders. Consequently, the development of leadership competencies is a major objective for health-care centres.

Methods- This article describes the quantitative results of a mixed methods study. A one-group pre-test-post-test quasi-experimental design was used. A convenience sample of 14 ward leaders were assessed three times using the Leadership Practices Inventory (LPI). Descriptive and inferential data analysis techniques were employed.

Results- In total 420 observer-assessment questionnaires and 42 self-assessment questionnaires were distributed. Our main finding was that nurse leaders following the programme, demonstrated significant improvement in two subscales of the LPI -'inspiring a shared vision' and 'challenging the process'.

Conclusion- This study showed improvement in two leadership practices of nurse leaders following a programme that has been adapted to Swiss health care.

Implications for nursing management- Findings concur with others studies that suggest that investments in educational programs to facilitate leadership skills in nurse leaders are justified.