Training Priority for Managerial Competence of Nurse Managers in Small and Medium-Sized Hospitals: Focusing on the Management Level

Abstract

Introduction The managerial competence of nurse managers varies according to their management level. Objectives This study aims to explore the training priority of managerial competence for nurse managers in small- and medium-sized hospitals based on their management level. Methods Nurse managers (122 front-line and 65 middle-level nurse managers and chief nurse executives (CNEs)) from 21 small- and medium-sized hospitals with less than 300 beds participated in a survey. T-test and Borich Priority were analyzed. Results Nurse managers identified control competence as the most significant management function in both groups. The training priority for front-line nurse managers was motivation in directing, while it was human resource development in human resource management for middle-level nurse managers and, CNEs. Conclusion Five management strategies were reported, which will be the basis for future systematic nursing management in nursing organizations.