Journal Article Ahead of print
PubMed: 42415529 DOI: 10.1177/10519815261467022
Emotional intelligence as A predictor of caring behaviors in icu nurses: Implications for nursing management in resource-limited settings.
Work
Authors: Moath Abu Ejheisheh, Ahmad Ayed, Ibrahim Aqtam, Fadwa Alhalaiqa, Ahmad Batran, Bahaaeddin M Hammad, Mosaab Farajallah, Rola Khair, Mustafa Shouli
Affiliations
- Faculty of Allied Medical Sciences, Department of Nursing, Palestine Ahliya University, Bethlehem, Palestine.
- Faculty of Nursing, Arab American University, Jenin, Palestine.
- Ibn Sina College for Health Professions, Department of Nursing, Nablus University for Vocational and Technical Education, Nablus, Palestine.
- Pre-Clinical Affairs, College of Nursing, Qatar University, Doha, Qatar.
Abstract
BackgroundThe emotional demands in resource-limited ICUs challenge nursing management. Trait emotional intelligence (trait EI) is a key competency, yet its link to nurses' valuation of caring behaviors remains underexplored.ObjectiveTo assess the relationship between trait EI and the self-reported importance of caring behaviors among ICU nurses in Palestine. This study explicitly examines nurses' perceived importance of caring behaviors rather than observed clinical performance, a distinction maintained throughout.MethodsA cross-sectional study surveyed 228 ICU nurses using the SSEIT and CBAN-SF. To mitigate social desirability bias, anonymity was guaranteed and questionnaire order counterbalanced. All regression analyses report VIF and Tolerance values confirming no multicollinearity.ResultsParticipants reported high trait EI (M = 118.1, SD = 11.1) and caring behavior importance (M = 99.6, SD = 10.0). A strong positive correlation was identified (r = 0.671, p < 0.001). Regression identified trait EI as the strongest predictor (B = 0.562, p < 0.001, 95% CI [0.473, 0.651]). Multicollinearity diagnostics confirmed acceptable VIF (< 2.5) and Tolerance (> 0.40).ConclusionsThis study confirms trait EI significantly predicts the value nurses place on caring behaviors in resource-limited ICUs. Conclusions pertain to perceived valuation of caring, not directly observed performance. EI development represents a viable, human-focused strategy to enhance staff resilience and care quality. The novel contribution lies in demonstrating this relationship within the understudied context of Palestinian ICUs.
MeSH
Nurses, Intelligence, Occupational Health, Nursing, Occupational Therapy, Intensive Care Units, Emotional Intelligence, Critical Care Nursing