title: Nurse managers' insights regarding their role highlight the need for practice changes.
abstract: OBJECTIVE
  The purpose of this study was to understand the insights of nurse managers regarding the nurse manager role.
  
  
  BACKGROUND
  Nurse managers are vital to the success of healthcare organizations. Vacancy rates of nurse manager positions are on the rise. Recruiting and retaining qualified individuals for these positions requires an understanding of the perceptions of nurse managers regarding the role and the issues embedded in the role.
  
  
  METHODS
  A descriptive, qualitative investigation was conducted. Data were analyzed using content analysis.
  
  
  RESULTS
  Although desired, role orientation, mentorship, and a strong foundational knowledge, were often lacking. Personal attributes viewed as important for success in the role included seeking opportunities and intentional self-growth. Lessons learned while in the role included the art of managing role demands and that comfort comes with time.
  
  
  CONCLUSIONS
  Concerns regarding the preparation for, introduction to, and support in the nurse manager role highlight the need for practice changes.
authors.affiliation: Xavier University School of Nursing, 3800 Victory Parkway, Cincinnati, OH 45207. Electronic address: moore@xavier.edu.
authors.forename: Linda Weaver
authors.initials: LW
authors.lastname: Moore
authors.affiliation: Xavier University School of Nursing, 3800 Victory Parkway, Cincinnati, OH 45207. Electronic address: sublett@xavier.edu.
authors.forename: Cynthia
authors.initials: C
authors.lastname: Sublett
authors.affiliation: Xavier University School of Nursing, 3800 Victory Parkway, Cincinnati, OH 45207.
authors.forename: Cathy
authors.initials: C
authors.lastname: Leahy
mesh_terms: D006801:Humans; D009718:Nurse Administrators / Q000523:psychology*; D024802:Nurse's Role
keywords: Leadership development; Nurse manager; Recruitment; Retention; Succession planning