[Role transition from clinical nurse to case manager for Medical-aid beneficiaries: taking root in a barren land].
OBJECTIVE
The purpose of this study was to explain the role transition process to nurse case managers (NCMs) for Medical-aid beneficiaries in Korea.


METHODS
Fourteen NCMs were interviewed regarding their experiences of becoming proficient in the new role of case manger. Data were analyzed through the application of grounded theory.


RESULTS
'Taking root in a barren land' was the core category explaining the role transition process of NCMs. They engaged in four stages: launching, trial and error, proficiency, and wait-and-see stages. NCMs showed not only fear but also passion for case management practice. Despite their passion and effort, NCMs went through a period of trial and error. After becoming skilled, NCMs went through a stage of wait-and-see often because of job insecurity related to temporary position or few opportunities for promotion. Factors influencing NCMs' role transition process included their understanding of client characteristics, belief in case management, and support from their colleagues and families.


CONCLUSIONS
NCMs experience many challenges in the process of becoming proficient NCMs. To help with their role transition, there is a need for education programs, preceptorship programs, research on their roles and functions, and regulation for securing NCMs' employment and career stability.
Department of Nursing, Konkuk University, Chungju, Korea.
Eun-Jun
EJ
Park
Chunmi
C
Kim
Seung Joo
SJ
Lim
D019090:Case Management; D006801:Humans; D007407:Interviews as Topic; D007588:Job Satisfaction; D008483:Medical Assistance; D009726:Nurses / Q000523:psychology*; D024382:Professional Role / Q000523:psychology; D036301:Qualitative Research