Preparation of Nurse Managers for financial management role: An exploration of the South African nursing education programme

Abstract

The aim of the study was to explore the preparation of Nurse Managers (NMs) for financial management roles. The South African Nursing Council (SANC) approved nursing management programmes which include the Diploma in Nursing Administration and the Diploma in Unit Management for registered nurses. A qualitative, exploratory design was used to explore the preparation of NMs for financial management roles in KwaZulu-Natal province, South Africa. The sample size for the semi-structured interviews conducted was guided by data saturation and comprised thirteen participants. Tesch’s open coding method was used to analyse the data. The results revealed that NMs are involved in financial management activities within the hospitals. However, they do not necessarily have the requisite management skills and competencies to function effectively in their financial management roles. It was concluded that NMs do indeed practice financial management, and therefore require the relevant knowledge, skills and competencies.

Keywords: Competency, financial management, challenges, Nurse Manager.