Developing emotional intelligence ability in oncology nurses: a clinical rounds approach

Area of Science:

• Nursing Science
• Healthcare Management
• Psychology

Background:

• Emotional intelligence (EI) is crucial for healthcare professionals, impacting patient care and staff well-being.
• Limited research exists on developing EI abilities in clinical staff nurses, particularly in high-stress environments.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess the feasibility and impact of an emotional intelligence ability development program for nursing staff.
• To evaluate the program's effect on staff and patient care within an oncology unit.

Main Methods:

• A mixed-methods, pre/post-test design was employed.
• The study involved 33 registered nurses (RNs) on a 24-bed inpatient oncology unit over 10 months.
• Data collected included EI scores, round data, chart reviews, and unit-wide satisfaction and safety metrics.

Main Results:

• The baseline ability to identify emotions in self and others was lower than anticipated.
• A low test response rate precluded pre- and post-intervention score comparisons.
• Despite this, 94% staff participation in rounds and 100% positive evaluations were achieved.

Conclusions:

• The intervention demonstrated high feasibility for continuation due to minimal resource requirements.
• Post-study improvements in emotional care documentation and planning suggest a positive impact.
• Further research is recommended to specifically evaluate EI's impact on nurses' emotion identification skills over longer periods.