I remember the day an Assistant Director of Nursing (ADON) approached me and said, “Jen, would you be interested in being acting NUM while we recruit to the position?” My eyes widened; I took a deep breath, and the word “sure” slipped out of my mouth. As I went back to my patient’s ventilation observations, I thought, wow – how exciting, what a privilege, I was filled with joy.
My joy was quickly diminished when I told my colleagues my exciting news. All but one said they had been asked but said no! I started to wonder what was wrong with being a NUM? Wonder soon turned to fear and panic as I thought, “What have I got myself into?”
As a fourth-year RN, I had clinical experience, though I was still learning. I had just completed a postgraduate certificate in Intensive Care Nursing, which enhanced my critical thinking skills and clinical practice. I was becoming a confident and competent ICU nurse, but was this enough to equip me to be an effective NUM? I was 25 years old.
During my first two weeks of being an acting NUM, I started to wonder what all the fuss was about. I was loving it! Not much had changed, I just had an office instead of a locker to keep my bag in. I was a very hands-on NUM. I made sure I covered all breaks and would take patients, especially emergency admissions to help reduce the load off my team. My team was wrapped, and I was receiving positive feedback every day.
The ADON was less thrilled. I was called to their office and asked to explain why my quality reports were late, why I hadn’t attended the OHS committee meeting, and where the next roster was. The colour drained from my face, I was failing. Based on the feedback, I worked extra hard and long hours. I still supported the team during the day, stayed back late every day, and did administrative duties late into the evening. This was not sustainable.
After my initial introduction to management, I went back to clinical roles, thinking it was not for me. Over time, I decided I wanted to have greater influence over workplace culture and have been a NUM, ADON in Mental Health, and an Operational Director of Drug and Alcohol Services. I have learned so much and often reflect on my first experience as a NUM – I wish I knew then what I know now!
Had there been a support system or a program tailored for nurses stepping into management roles, my journey might have been less daunting. Today, as Director of the Australian College of Nursing (ACN) Institute of Leadership, I’m proud to lead the Nurse Unit Manager Leadership Program. This initiative is designed to equip nurses with the crucial skills I once found myself in dire need of—ranging from time management and resource allocation to fostering a positive workplace culture and ensuring quality care. More than just a program, it’s a pathway to empowering nurses to navigate leadership roles with confidence, embrace change effectively, and prioritise self-care while leading by example. For those looking to make a meaningful impact in leadership positions, this program offers the insights, tools, and support to thrive as an effective NUM, transforming challenges into opportunities for growth and leadership excellence.
By Jennifer Harland MACN
Jennifer Harland has an impressive four decades of healthcare experience. Her career trajectory spans diverse domains, from clinical practice to academic pursuits, and from shaping policy to providing inspirational leadership. Her impact resonates across Government and Non-Government organisations in New South Wales, South Australia, and the Australian Capital Territory.
Jennifer’s commitment to education and training is evident through her academic achievements. She holds a Master of Science (Addiction), delving into the complexities of substance use and recovery. Her Master of Arts (Applied Ethics) reflects her deep contemplation on ethical dilemmas in health care. Jennifer has also completed Postgraduate Certificates in Intensive Care, Mental Health, Higher Education, and Emergency & Disaster Management. As Director of the Australian College of Nursing Institute of Leadership, Jennifer is supporting other nurses in their pursuit of excellence.
