An examination of the leadership competency requirements of nurse leaders in healthcare information technology

There exists a need to identify contemporary healthcare information technology competencies of nurse leaders in an attempt to assure and enhance quality healthcare service delivery. This study utilizes a Qualitative Descriptive Case Study to explore and identify contemporary healthcare information technology competencies of practicing nurse leaders. A purposive sample of 25 nurse leaders provided information during structured interviews about their experiences in healthcare information technology environments. The study findings captured the insights and the lived experiences of the participants which were significant in examining the competency requirements of nurse leaders in healthcare information technology. The results of the study supported the need for establishing a valid and comprehensive set of nurse leader core competencies specific to healthcare information technology. Attention to the development of a defined set of healthcare information technology competencies along with enhanced leadership skills and abilities may serve as a model to master the changing environment of healthcare.