Strategies Employed by Nursing Managers Within a Transformational Approach: A Qualitative Study

Background: The roles of nursing managers are diverse and demand high proficiency, with transformational approach recognized as a key competency for achieving organizational goals. A transformational approach is identified as essential in addressing the unique challenges of healthcare management, particularly in nursing, by enhancing self-efficacy and fostering trust among team members. Design: This study employed a conventional qualitative content analysis design. Methods: Purposive sampling was used to recruit 23 nurse managers from hospital settings between April 2022 and August 2023. Data were collected through semistructured interviews, which were audiorecorded with participants' consent, transcribed verbatim into Word documents, and imported into MAXQDA software (Version 2020) for systematic organization and analysis. The data were analyzed using Graneheim and Lundman's (2020) qualitative content analysis method, while trustworthiness was ensured based on the criteria proposed by Kyngas, Kaariainen, and Elo (2020). Results: Eight subcategories and three final categories were identified as key strategies used by nursing managers in a transformational approach. The findings revealed that nursing managers employ strategies such as drawing the path of transformation, fostering a transformation-based culture, and facilitating transformational change within their practices. Conclusion: This study emphasizes the transformational strategies employed by nursing managers, which involve establishing clear pathways for transformation, fostering a culture of change, and acting as facilitators of the transformation process. It is recommended that nursing managers consistently implement and refine these strategies to promote innovation, adaptability, and a culture centered around change and transformation. Through these efforts, nursing managers can significantly enhance organizational effectiveness, improve patient outcomes, and drive substantial advancements in nursing practice.