Communication and the healthy work environment: nurse managers' perceptions
Sheila Q Hartung1, Mindi Miller
1Department of Nursing, Bloomsburg University, Pennsylvania 17815, USA. shartung@bloomu.edu
The Journal of Nursing Administration
|April 26, 2013
Summary
Nurse managers
Area of Science:
- Nursing Leadership
- Organizational Communication
- Healthcare Management
Background:
- Poor communication and teamwork are linked to patient harm and poor workplace cultures.
- Limited research exists on nurse managers' perceptions of communication and healthy work environments.
Purpose of the Study:
- To explore nurse managers' perspectives on communication trends within their leadership roles.
- To understand the influence of unit subcultures on communication dynamics.
Main Methods:
- A descriptive qualitative study design was employed.
- In-depth interviews were conducted with 6 nurse managers (12 interviews total).
- Thematic analysis identified key communication patterns and themes.
Main Results:
- Workplace processes were identified that either supported or impeded effective communication.
- Factors influencing nurse managers' ability to set a positive tone and connect with staff were revealed.
- Challenges in balancing unit and institutional demands with communication needs were highlighted.
Conclusions:
- Study findings offer insights into strengthening communication practices in nursing.
- Recommendations are provided to address communication disconnects and foster healthier work environments.
- Enhancing communication is crucial for effective nurse leadership and positive workplace culture.
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