Graduate nursing programs reflect evolving roles

Master of Science in nursing programs are focusing more on organizational leadership and health system management, according to a recent article in HealthLeaders Media. It quoted AONL member Kathleen Sanford, DBA, RN, executive vice president and chief nursing executive of CommonSpirit Health in Englewood, Colo., who said skills in communications, relationship management, leadership and business operations, in addition to knowledge about the health care field, are key attributes employers value. Nurse executives need competencies that allow them “to walk into a meeting and be heard,” said AONL member Vickie Swanson, MSN-HCSM, RN, chief nursing officer at Olympic Medical Center in Port Angeles, Wash., who also spoke with HealthLeaders Media. (HealthLeaders Media article, 2/10/22)