EXPLORING CHALLENGES ENCOUNTERED BY HEAD NURSES IN THEIR LEADERSHIP ROLE

Abstract

Objectives: This research explores the complexity of the tasks faced by head nurses responsible for leadership in a healthcare organization and addresses the management of resources, constraints, and responsibilities between leadership and clinical practice.

Materials and Methods: In the current study, a qualitative descriptive design was employed, and data was collected from head nurses employed at three public tertiary hospitals in Punjab, Pakistan, through semi-structured interviews. Researchers used thematic analysis based on Herzberg’s Two Factor Theory to sort out the challenges that were found.

Results: Some of the following findings were presented in the three areas of structure issues, resources, and professional development. The lack of an adequate workforce, suboptimal resources, decision-making power restriction, and lack of access to unintermitting professional development influenced head nurses’ leadership capacity and job satisfaction.

Conclusion: Therefore, improving head nurse leadership competencies requires addressing head nurse work structures and resources to strengthen the context in which leadership practice occurs. Enhancing the promotion of organizational support, increasing the decision-making authority, and providing diverse professional development can enrich their role and guarantee a positive impact on patient treatment results and staff satisfaction.