Nurse Managers’ Advice to Novice Head Nurses: Bridging Experience With Aspiration

Background: Transitioning into the role of a head nurse encompasses not only operational responsibilities but also emotional, relational, and strategic challenges. Gaining insight into the advice offered by nurse managers can enhance leadership development and inform support systems for those entering this pivotal role. Aim: To explore and compare the advice given by novice and experienced nurse managers to novice head nurses, with a focus on emotional, relational, and strategic aspects of their guidance. Design: Qualitative study. Methods: Semistructured, face-to-face interviews were conducted with 30 ward-based nurse managers at a single hospital between January and March 2025. Data were analyzed using Braun and Clarke’s six-step thematic analysis, emphasizing participants’ intentions, experiences, and perspectives. Results: Five key themes emerged: (1) developing a managerial identity; (2) gradual learning and a slow transition into the role; (3) meaning at work and alignment with personal values; (4) resilience and maintaining balance; and (5) cultivating strong relationships with staff. Both commonalities and differences were identified between the advice of novice and experienced managers, particularly in their views on leadership development and self-care. Conclusion: The findings offer practical and emotional insights that can support structured mentoring and leadership training for novice head nurses.