A Tool to Identify Key Behaviors and Attributes of High-Performing Nurses

Area of Science:

• Nursing
• Healthcare Management
• Human Resources

Background:

• Effective nurse selection is crucial for quality patient care, safety, patient satisfaction, and cost reduction.
• Aligning nurse attributes with organizational mission and philosophy enhances outcomes.
• High nurse retention rates are linked to organizational success and cost-effectiveness.

Purpose of the Study:

• To identify key behaviors and attributes of high-performing nurses.
• To develop a tool for employment screening, staff development, and performance management.
• To create a reliable method for assessing nurse performance and cultural fit.

Main Methods:

• Focus group methodology was employed to gather perceptions of high-performing nurses.
• Content analysis of focus group transcripts was conducted to categorize behaviors and attributes.
• Iterative testing phases were performed with diverse groups to refine the assessment tool.

Main Results:

• A 16-item scale was successfully developed after multiple testing phases.
• The scale effectively captures critical behaviors and attributes distinguishing high-performing nurses.
• The tool provides a structured approach to evaluating nursing candidates.

Conclusions:

• Nurse managers report positive ratings for the new tool in interviewing nurse applicants.
• The scale aids in selecting nurses who align with the organization's nursing culture.
• Ongoing monitoring of hiring decisions, preceptor ratings, and retention rates will validate the tool's impact.