Table 4.

Factors affecting the feasibility of nurse leadership according to experts interviewed

	Factors decreasing feasibility
Structural Factors	• Low levels of nursing representation at the national and provincial levels • No representational body for the profession for strongly advocating on nursing issues • Lack of clarity around authority and accountability for decision-making • Lack of role clarity between State and National level institutions as health is a “state affair”
Functional Factors	• Nurses are not appropriately prepared for leadership or managerial positions • Eligibility criteria restrict nurses from applying for leadership positions • Lack of transparency in decision-making processes • No mandate for INC for national oversight on issues other than nursing education