Abstract
M.Cur.
It has been demonstrated that mentoring improves outcomes at both the individual and organizational level. The shortage of skilled human resources in nursing has indicated the need for mentoring. However, no formalized framework exists on how mentoring in the context of nurse unit managers should occur, despite mentoring being a legal requirement (South Africa, 2004:26).
The intention of this study was to develop a mentoring strategy for nurse unit managers in private hospitals in Gauteng. The mentoring needs of nurse unit managers in private hospitals in Gauteng were determined and conceptualized and a framework developed on which the development of a mentoring strategy could be based.
A quantitative descriptive research design was followed to develop a mentoring strategy for Nurse Unit managers in private hospitals in Gauteng. Probability sampling was employed (Burns & Grove, 2005:348). A clustered sample (Burns & Grove, 2005:348) of private hospitals within the three regions of Tshwane, Johannesburg Central and Ekurhuleni was drawn. From these a random sample of nurse unit managers in private hospitals within the clusters was drawn.
A self-developed closed-ended questionnaire (see Annexure 1) was utilized to collect data on the mentoring needs of nurse unit managers. Data was analysed using the Statistical Package of Social Sciences (SPSS), and a statistician at the University of Johannesburg was consulted. Descriptive statistics were employed to analyse data (Burns & Grove, 2005:442). Content validity was ensured and the instrument piloted to ensure its reliability. An external statistician was consulted to ensure the credibility or validity of the data analysis and interpretation. Ethical approval was sought and measures implemented to ensure the ethical nature of the study. The descriptive data that was analysed included the biographical data – age, gender, race, home language, highest level of qualification, employment status, length of service, length of position, clinical area and the number of work hours of nurse unit managers.The ANOVA statistical results revealed a moderate need for mentoring of nurse unit managers in all of the management dimensions. Recommendations for further research were outlined and a conclusion on the need for nurse unit managers to be mentored was drawn.The researcher noted from reviews of the numerous literature sources, mentoring improves the quality of patient care and cost-effectiveness, and ensures the competitiveness of private hospitals. What this study provides is insight into the mentoring needs and management functions of nurse unit managers working in private hospitals.