Evaluation of a Regional Leadership and Management Development Programme for Senior Nurse Managers in the HSE North East Region

Research Study Background A growing body of evidence in the literature supports the links between strong nursing leadership and positive patient and staff outcomes. An eight day leadership and management development... [ view full abstract ]

Research Study

Background
A growing body of evidence in the literature supports the links between strong nursing leadership and positive patient and staff outcomes. An eight day leadership and management development programme was organised by the NMPD HSE North East and offered to senior nurse managers across all disciplines of nursing throughout the region. Twenty nurse managers completed the programme which ran from December 2013 – May 2014.

The programme, designed to address previously identified competency development needs, was delivered on a modular basis with a focus on action and experiential learning.

Aims
On completion of the programme an evaluation was undertaken which aimed to
• determine the extent to which the learning outcomes of each module were achieved
• assess the impact of the programme on the knowledge and skill levels of the participants
• assess the impact on participant health and well being
• assess the appropriateness of learning methods used

Methods
Multiple data collection methods and sources were used including
• Attendance Records
• Participant Feedback from each Module
• Personal and Organisational Quality Assessment Revised 4 Scale (POQA – R4) Questionnaires
• Qualitative analysis of presentations from the participants of their learning on the programme
• Reported Service Initiatives
Findings
Overall attendance rate was 92%.
Participants rated each module as mostly “very good” or “excellent” in meeting the learning outcomes.
The POQA –R4 questionnaires as rated by 18 participants, measured at the beginning and end of the programme show a statistically significant decrease in organisational stress (-18%, p = 0.001), emotional stress (-24%, p = 0.001) and physical stress (-25%, p = 0.001).
Emotional vitality increased by 13% and this increase was statistically significant (p=0.001).
Participants reported substantive learning from the programme. Additional reported outcomes included increasing self awareness, personal growth, increasing confidence and the development of supportive networks.
A number of service initiatives resulted from the programme.

Conclusions
The learning outcomes of the programme were achieved and a number of additional positive outcomes realised. The learning methods employed were appropriate. The NMPD HSE North East will continue to support similar leadership programmes in the future.