Leading through the COVID-19 pandemic: Experiences of UK Executive Nurse Directors

James, Alison H. ORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0002-0965-3169, Dimond, Rebecca ORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0003-1974-7289, Jones, Aled, Watkins, Dianne and Kelly, Daniel ORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0002-1847-0655 2024. Leading through the COVID-19 pandemic: Experiences of UK Executive Nurse Directors. Journal of Advanced Nursing 10.1111/jan.16329

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Abstract

Aim To explore the challenges experienced by Executive Nurse Directors during the COVID-19 pandemic, and to inform future nursing leadership strategies. Design A qualitative research project involving interviews with 21 Executive Nurse Directors from England and Wales. Methods Participants were purposively sampled and recruited through Chief Nursing Officers and nursing leadership networks. Semi-structured interviews were conducted and recorded online via Teams. Braun and Clarke's approach to thematic reflexive analysis was applied to data analysis. Results Executive Nurse Directors played a critical role during the COVID-19 pandemic. Six themes are explored: tensions, and adaptive response to personal leadership styles; uncertainty and support at the board level; responding to national political decision-making; the personal and emotional impact of the role and the sources of effective support; the voice and public profile of nursing; lessons learnt and strategies for future leadership development. Enablers of decision-making included effective multidisciplinary working, freedom from normal organizational constraints, support for innovation, and the development of stronger bonds with colleagues. Barriers to decision-making included limited knowledge of the virus and its impact and lack of guidance, particularly at a national level. Priorities, strategies and actions for recovery include recognizing the emotional impact of being in a high-level decision-making role, protecting staff from burnout and understanding the long-term implications of pandemic work for nurse leaders. Conclusion Future strategies for nursing leadership during public health, national and global emergencies are recommended. Impact This study contributes to the literature exploring the Executive Nurse Director role and their experiences of leading through the COVID-19 pandemic, and identifies priorities, strategies and actions for recovery and learning for the future of senior leadership.

Item Type:	Article
Date Type:	Published Online
Status:	In Press
Schools:	Social Sciences (Includes Criminology and Education) Healthcare Sciences
Publisher:	Wiley
ISSN:	0309-2402
Date of First Compliant Deposit:	24 July 2024
Date of Acceptance:	29 June 2024
Last Modified:	25 Jul 2024 14:00
URI:	https://orca.cardiff.ac.uk/id/eprint/170890

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