Preparation for management: an exploratory study to ascertain perceptions of F grade nurses and clinical nurse managers

The role and preparation of first-line nurse managers in Australia: where are we going and how do we get there?

Organizational restructuring is impacting heavily on the first-line nurse managers' role. Given their critical role, it is important that the best and most talented are attracted to and prepared to be first-line managers. The authors provide an overview of the role of first-line nurse managers in Australia, proposing that nurse administrators take a more active role than has traditionally been the case in ensuring staff are appropriately educated and selected for management positions.

Nursing managers, transformed or deformed? A case study in the ideology of competency

Examines the ideological nature of competence-based approaches to the management training of nurse managers. Explores the transition required from a "clinical" identity to a managerial one. Employs Habermas' theory of communicative action to analyse the ideological features and to provide a way of reflecting on the nature of the professional identity they are being encouraged to accept. Indicates some further avenues for research.