Abstract
Modern matrons were introduced in 2001 by the Department of Health to lead clinical teams in the prevention of healthcare associated infection. The facilitative role of modern matron requires both managerial and entrepreneurial skills and senior nurses are expected to lead by example, inspire, motivate and empower others, and thus conform to the `transformational leadership' style that foregrounds the importance of interpersonal and influencing skills. In this paper we identify problems that challenge this model of the modern matron and link them to possible problems in infection control. The study describes cases of difficulty in fulfilling leadership requirements because of organisational barriers to empowerment despite arguments to the contrary. Unless a significant budgetary responsibility is made part of the modern matron's role, personal skills (communication, problem solving) alone may not be sufficient to sustain it and may not lead to achieving control over infection, which was the initial trigger for instituting this role.
Highlights
MRSA infections have been on the rise since the 1990s
In this paper we will identify problems that challenge this model of the modern matron and link them to possible problems in infection control – in other words, look at gaps between aspirations and realities which may lead to difficulties in preventing and controlling infection
Drawing on policy documents and interview data, we aim to explore the impact of the ‘transformational leadership’ style in the role of modern matron with regards to infection control practices, and to highlight experiences of modern matrons which can instruct future guidance for an increased involvement of matrons in infection control
Summary
‘Modern matrons’ were created in response to public demand for ‘an authoritative figure who would provide clinical leadership, but who would be identifiable, have close contact with patients and ensure delivery of care to the highest standards’ – ensuring prevention of hospital-acquired infection. As it is uncertain how the authoritative management style of matrons in the past fits into today’s nursing and healthcare culture and the focus on empowerment (Oughtibridge, 2003), it was suggested that the role could be seen as enabling, rather than strictly authoritarian, using transformational leadership styles (Bryman, 1992). Drawing on policy documents and interview data, we aim to explore the impact of the ‘transformational leadership’ style in the role of modern matron with regards to infection control practices, and to highlight experiences of modern matrons which can instruct future guidance for an increased involvement of matrons in infection control
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