An analysis of the educational role of the ward sister (implications for nurse educators).

The current scheme of nurse education in the United Kingdom has, as its foundation, the premise that student nurses learn in the clinical setting, whilst caring for patients. In order to maximise the learning potential of the clinical environment it is important for nurse educators to have an understanding of the complexities of the ward situation and in particular the role of the ward sister. Within the context of role theory, this paper presents an analysis of the educational role of the ward sister and considers the extent to which her clinical and management roles inhibit her ability to effectively fulfil her educational role. In the light of complex role expectations, the issues of role conflict and role ambiguity are addressed. The need for nurse educators to be more empathic towards the role demands imposed upon the ward sister and possible supportive measures are then considered.