Program Evaluation of a Nurse Executive Fellowship Initiative.

OBJECTIVE

The purpose of this program evaluation was to assess the impact that a structured nurse executive fellowship program (NEFP) had on resilience and emotional intelligence (EI).

BACKGROUND

Over the recent decades, the role of the CNO has expanded requiring enhanced skills such as resilience and EI to better address increased interprofessional teamwork and collaboration.

METHODS

This is a mixed-methods retrospective program evaluation of the NEFP at a large community-based healthcare system in the Midwest. Twelve nursing directors were selected to participate in the program via an application and interview process. The 2-year program consisted of didactic sessions, coaching sessions, immersion experiences, and completion of a process improvement project.

RESULTS

Both resilience and EI were greater after the program (Mdn, 9 and 6, respectively) than before the program (Mdn, 88 and 5.88, respectively). In addition, qualitative feedback from the participants was extremely positive.

CONCLUSIONS

A structured executive development program can increase levels of resilience and EI, both of which positively impact turnover intention by reducing stress and burnout and increasing job satisfaction.