title: Lessons in innovation: role transition experiences of clinical nurse leaders.
abstract: OBJECTIVE
  The purpose of this study was to describe the role transition experiences of 71 Clinical Nurse Leaders (CNLs) as they pioneered the role in practice settings.
  
  
  BACKGROUND
  Although the impact of CNL practice is now being measured through a variety of evaluation projects, less is known about the role transition experiences of CNLs.
  
  
  METHODS
  This was a qualitative study using an interpretative phenomenological analysis approach. Semistructured telephone interviews were conducted with 71 CNLs working in the role.
  
  
  RESULTS
  The 5 major themes that emerged from the study included staying at the bedside, explaining who we are, keeping things from falling through the cracks, and proving our value and cautious about the future.
  
  
  CONCLUSIONS
  The results of the study can both help to inform nurse leaders about introducing major changes in their organizations and guide future CNLs in their role transition.
authors.affiliation: Nursing Leadership Institute, Christine E. Lynn College of Nursing, Florida Atlantic University, Boca Raton, FL 33431, USA. rsherman@fau.edu
authors.forename: Rose O
authors.initials: RO
authors.lastname: Sherman
mesh_terms: D003266:Continuity of Patient Care; D006801:Humans; D007407:Interviews as Topic; D007857:Leadership; D009720:Nurse Clinicians; D024802:Nurse's Role; D009936:Organizational Innovation