Nurse case managers' opinions of their role.

Delphi and focus group methods were used to identify nurse case managers' (NCMs') opinions regarding their professional role. This study convened 15 NCMs from a regional medical center in the southeastern United States. Findings present the highest-rated items influencing the NCM role, as well as a definition and model depicting the role's essential elements. In study questionnaires, participants were asked to identify and subsequently rate items in seven categories. The overall highest-rated item was the personal attribute of critical thinking and prioritizing. The second highest-rated response was the critical function of coordinating a multidisciplinary plan of care. Interdisciplinary support and participative decision making were consistently ranked as important organizational factors. In the category of impact on health care outcomes, identifying patient needs and services was highly rated. Participants suggested that NCM assignments should be based on clinical knowledge and expertise, with a focus on prevention. Practice implications, based on the findings, are emphasized.