The influence of interpersonal relationships on nurse managers' work engagement and proactive work behavior
Nora E Warshawsky1, Donna S Havens, George Knafl
1College of Nursing, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY 40536-0232, USA. nwa229@email.uky.edu
Objective:
This study tested the effects of interpersonal relationships on nurse managers' work engagement and proactive work behavior.
Background:
An engaged workforce may help healthcare organizations improve performance. In healthcare, nurse managers are responsible for creating motivating work environments. They also need to be engaged, yet little is known about what influences nurse managers' performance.
Methods:
A self-administered electronic survey was used to collect data from 323 nurse managers working in acute care hospitals. Instruments included the Relational Coordination Scale, Utrecht Work Engagement Scale, and Proactive Work Behavior Scale.
Results:
Interpersonal relationships with nurse administrators were most predictive of nurse managers' work engagement. Interpersonal relationships with physicians were most predictive of nurse managers' proactive work behavior.
Conclusion:
Organizational cultures that foster quality interpersonal relationships will support the job performance of nurse managers.
Related Concept Videos
Levels of Communication I: Intrapersonal, Interpersonal, and Small Group
We can participate in these relationships through verbal, nonverbal, and mediated communication. We engage in verbal communication when we use words during our interaction to convey specific meanings. On the other hand, nonverbal communication refers to various factors that can impact how we understand each other—for example, facial expressions.
We interact with others using mediated technologies like the...
Levels of Communication II: Organizational, Public, and Group Dynamics
The Professional Nurse
Communication skills: These are critical characteristics, especially speaking and listening.
Nurses' Legal Responsibilities III
Cultivating a culture of collaboration and mutual respect among nurses transcends mere enhancement...
Obedience
Understanding Interpersonal Attraction

