On 17 July 2023, the inaugural Nurse Unit Manager Leadership Program (NUMLP) was launched in Sydney, marking the beginning of a transformative journey for 24 aspiring nurse leaders from across Australia. Over five days, participants delved into an intensive masterclass led by esteemed leaders.
One year on, three alumni have shared the profound ways in which the prestigious program has shaped and enriched their careers as Nurse Unit Managers (NUM). From implementing Kurt Lewin’s Model of Change to enhance safety huddles, to overcoming imposter syndrome, and drawing on newfound support networks to navigate the complexities of leadership, their stories reflect the diverse and significant impact of this leadership training on their professional lives.
In this article, you can read stories from:
Alison Skinner MACN
Reflecting on the past year, it’s incredible to see how my career as a NUM has transformed since I embarked on the inaugural NUMLP. My number one takeaway and game-changer – your support network.
As an acting NUM undertaking secondments for six of the last seven months, my experience could have been more daunting. It was uniquely reassuring to have access to the wonderful brain trust of my fellow NUMLP group and a group of seasoned colleagues within my hospital. Whenever I hit a roadblock or needed advice (which was often if I’m honest), I knew I could turn to them for guidance.
Being a NUM at times feels like you’re working on your own little island. However, discovering the power of finding your network to collaborate, share experiences, offer advice, and lend an empathetic ear when needed is the key to transitioning from working in isolation to being a part of a thriving village.
My journey as acting NUM has been full of camaraderie, learning and growth. Thanks to the NUMLP for empowering me to take control of my journey and to the NUM group within my hospital for so much support.
About Alison Skinner MACN
Alison is a Registered Nurse at Westmead ICU, having worked for WSLHD since 2016 following her graduation from Deakin University with a Bachelor of Nursing. She has earned a Graduate Diploma in both Acute Care Nursing and Critical Care Nursing and is on track to complete her Master’s in Critical Care in 2024. Alison contributes her expertise to the Code Blue Team, the NSW Biocontainment Centre, and the Westmead Leadership and Management Development Program. Recently, she completed a 6-month secondment as a NUM, during which she honed practical leadership and management skills, significantly contributing to the advancement and sustainability of nursing, patient care, and community wellbeing.
Erlinda Baker MACN
In health care, change is an inevitable part of our journey towards improving patient outcomes and quality of care. As a leader, my responsibility is to ensure that our team is always ready to embrace change. Thanks to the NUMLP, I have developed critical leadership skills that have empowered me to become an effective change management agent. I learned motivational and communication skills and understood various change theories.
During the program, we discussed different theories of change, and one that particularly resonated with me was Kurt Lewin’s Model of Change. I applied this model when our unit implemented a safety huddle. To be successful, the model requires the driving forces of change to be greater than the resisting forces. This powerful tool for managing change comprises three stages: unfreeze, change, and freeze. Firstly, I prepared our team for change by motivating them and gaining their acceptance of the need for change. Secondly, we transitioned from old practices to new ones. Frequent communication is necessary to address any fears and uncertainties. Finally, we focused on stability and integrating the change into our organisational culture.
I am committed to fostering a culture of continuous improvement and innovation to strive for excellence in care. With the skills and knowledge I’ve gained through the program, I am confident in leading change initiatives in our workplace.
About Erlinda Baker MACN
Erlinda is a registered nurse with 15 years of experience and holds a Certificate in Training & Assessment. Her clinical skills, knowledge and experiences encompass palliative care to high acuity care. She is no stranger to change, having experienced the amalgamation of units and the inception of new programs. She is currently employed by West Gippsland HealthCare Group as an Associate Nurse Unit Manager in the Medical Unit and as a Discharge Coordinator. She is client-focused and thrives on challenges and responsibilities to provide compassionate care always. Aside from being a nurse, she is also a seasoned traveller and a passionate Carlton Football Club supporter.
Alyson Martin MACN
Five days with 23 other individuals together with a cast of presenters of the highest quality in the inaugural NUMLP changed so many facets of me – the individual, the nurse, the colleague, the leader, and the imposter.
I had previously done acting positions as NUM and whilst I have endeavoured to do the best I could, it never felt truly adequate or at a level I was satisfied with. I could reflect and evidence deficits in my suite of skills; however, I never found the right tool for a solution. The service profile and bpf process was an enigma to me, and I have now proudly submitted on time a document that I have confidence and pride in.
The NUMLP has been the most impactful five days of my career. It has removed the imposter syndrome from the overthinking side of my life and given me confidence with solid foundations as I continue to strive for excellence as I master this role. I walked out with direction, purpose, meaning, and a toolbox for a successful enriched future to achieve my goals and beyond.
For a deeper dive into my experience, explore my reflection Fuelling passion: How the Nurse Unit Manager Leadership Program inspired me, written shortly after I completed the masterclass.
About Alyson Martin MACN
Alyson Martin MACN is a registered nurse specialising in advanced practice, immunisation, infection prevention and control, and leadership.
Alyson is a proud, passionate leader and advocate for the growth of nursing. She is dedicated to driving the recognition of nursing to the forefront of health care. She is committed to challenging and enquiring unapologetically for the improved wellbeing of all Australians.
If you are feeling inspired to progress your own career as a NUM, we are here to help you make your goals a reality!
Discover the role’s diversity by reading about the experiences of three participants in A day in the life of a NUM.
Get ready for the transition from direct patient care to leadership with Ten tips for transitioning from clinical nursing to management.
Or, follow in the footsteps of Alison, Erlinda and Alyson and take on the challenge of elevating your career through the Nurse Unit Manager Leadership Program.
