Emotional Intelligence and Transformational Leadership in Nurse Managers
OBJECTIVE: This study describes the relationship between emotional intelligence (EI) and transformational leadership (TL) in nurse managers (NMs) BACKGROUND: Effective NM leadership is important as they have direct influence over RN performance and patient outcomes. Research has demonstrated that a TL style generates greater commitment from followers than other leadership styles. EI is 1 potential characteristic of TL. METHODS: A descriptive exploratory research study was conducted to correlate EI and TL practices of NMs. RESULTS: EI was significantly positively correlated with TL and outcome measures of extra effort, effectiveness, and satisfaction and significantly negatively correlated with laissez faire leadership. A positive relationship was found between TL and NMs with advanced education and administrative certification. CONCLUSION: Nursing administrators should consider EI characteristics when hiring NMs and lead efforts to advance education to align with organization needs for business and strategic essentials necessary for NM effectiveness.
The Journal of nursing administration