Nursing managers, transformed or deformed? – A case study in the ideology of competency

Examines the ideological nature of competence‐based approaches to the management training of nurse managers. Explores the transition required from a “clinical” identity to a managerial one. Employs Habermas’ theory of communicative action to analyse the ideological features and to provide a way of reflecting on the nature of the professional identity they are being encouraged to accept. Indicates some further avenues for research.