Abstract:
The recent reengineering within the health care industry has challenged many
assumptions regarding traditional structures and roles. Within a product-line
management structure, the traditional viewpoint that those who manage patient care
areas must have a nursing background, is an example of one such assumption being
challenged. The nursing profession is often seen as the greatest obstacle to the
implementation of a product-line management structure and generic manager
positions (does not require a nursing background), due to the perceived loss of
professional identity.
This qualitative study focused on how nursing staff within a chronic care and
rehabilitation facility perceived a generic service manager position. Focus groups
were conducted in three phases, over a 14 month period of time. The data
collected from the focus groups were then coded according to common themes.
Each phase was analyzed independently, with the study concluding with an analysis
and interpretation of the collective results.
The results of this study revealed a significant shift in how the nursing staff
perceived their professional identity and accountability in light of the
implementation of the generic Service Manager position. Initial reactions of
personal and professional vulnerability and resentment were seen to transform into
an increased ability to explicitly articulate the role of nursing. Changes in behavior
that were described included: increased consultation and collaboration with other
