Evaluation of the effectiveness of a Strengths-Based Nursing and Healthcare Leadership program aimed at building leadership capacity: A concurrent mixed-methods study

Abstract

BackgroundTargeted interventions have been found effective for developing leadership practices in nurses. However, to date, no leadership training program based on the Strengths-Based Nursing and Healthcare Leadership approach exists. ObjectivesDemonstrate the effectiveness of a Strengths-Based Nursing and Healthcare Leadership 6-month program designed for nurse and healthcare leaders on leadership capacity and psychological outcomes. DesignConcurrent mixed-methods with nurse and healthcare leaders from five healthcare organisations in Quebec and Ontario (Canada). SettingsParticipants were recruited from five Canadian health care organizations: two in Toronto (Ontario) and three in Montreal (Quebec). ParticipantsA total of 50 nurse leaders and healthcare leaders were included in the quantitative component, and 22 (20 nurse leaders and two healthcare leaders) participated in the qualitative individual interviews. MethodsQuantitative and qualitative (interviews) methods were used. Quantitative data (pre-post surveys) were collected from the participants before their participation in the program (Time 0), as well as after the completion of the program (Time 1). Qualitative data (individual interviews) were collected from participants at the end of the program (Time 1). Analysis was conducted using descriptive statistics, paired-sample t-tests, and thematic analysis. ResultsQuantitative results suggest a significant improvement in terms of leadership capabilities, work satisfaction, and reduction in perceived stress among participants. Three themes emerged from the qualitative data analysis: 1) focus on people's strengths, 2) structure and language based on Strengths-Based Nursing and Healthcare values, and 3) building support networks. ConclusionsThe Strengths-Based Nursing and Healthcare Leadership program developed to build the leadership capabilities of nurse and healthcare leaders was found to be effective. The positive impact of the 6-month program was demonstrated. It was also shown that the leadership program can help improve the leadership competencies, well-being, and work satisfaction of participating nurses and healthcare leaders. ImplicationThis study reinforces the importance of working with educational, research, and healthcare organizations to establish leadership development programs and mentorship opportunities. Future leadership training should use a Strengths-Based Nursing and Healthcare Leadership lens when tackling leadership and stress in the workplace.