Anyone managing a unit they didn't have experience in?

RNPATL, DNP, RN · Feb 6, 2005

Are any of you managing departments/units that you had no experience in? I have a possible chance to manage an OR (small hospital - less than 100 beds) and except for a year of first assisting, have never worked OR. The hospital I currently work at does this regularly - ER manager never worked ER, Cardiac Cath Lab manager never worked there either - but they are good managers - does this mean that as long as you are a good manager, your clinical past doesn't really matter? help!! I don't want to get in over my head.......

I am currently a manager for a very busy med-surg floor. On this floor, we take oncology patients and I have no oncology experience. We also take pediatric patients and I have limited experience in peds. I think the most important thing is to surround yourself with nurses that have experiences in the areas that you do not. This is what I do and I have leanred a great deal from these nurses. Of course, in the beginning, when you are first taking over, it can be scary becuase you are responsible for the department and for staffing the department. I would say it can be done, but get some strong nurses under you that can support the operation.

MamaTheNurse, BSN, RN · Feb 6, 2005

thanks for the feedback - although I don't know you, I've read many of your postings on other threads and you always have good insight :)

nursemaa · Feb 6, 2005

I was "sent" to manage my unit during a restructuring about 4 years ago. I had no clinical experience in this specialty, and although it's been tough, I've survived. Contrary to what many staff nurses believe, the main things you need are an ability to manage the people and resources so that you can support your staff and provide them with what they need to do their jobs. The toughest part is convincing nurses that have been in that specialty for 100 years ( :) )that you are capable of managing the unit. I wouldn't recommend a complete turnaround (say, going from cardiology to OB), but if the unit is similar to your specialty you should be OK. Good luck!

RNPATL, DNP, RN · Feb 6, 2005

thanks for the feedback - although I don't know you, I've read many of your postings on other threads and you always have good insight :)

:imbar Thank you very the nice words. I try to bring a perspective to the board that is practical and based in realistic practice.