The relationship between clinical decision-making levels and self-efficacy levels of operating room nurses

Abstract

BackgroundClinical decision-making and self-efficacy levels of operating room nurses are critical for patient care quality and safety. ObjectiveThis study aims to examine the relationship between clinical decision-making levels and self-efficacy among operating room nurses and to identify factors influencing these two key components of nursing practice. MethodsA cross-sectional descriptive design was used to survey 94 nurses working in surgical wards at Ankara University Medical Faculty Hospital. Data were collected using the Clinical Decision Making in Nursing Scale (CDMNS), General Self-Efficacy Scale (GSES), and a demographic information form. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, correlation analysis, and group comparisons. ResultsA significant positive correlation was found between clinical decision-making ability and self-efficacy (r = 0.355, p < .0001). Nurses with higher education levels demonstrated significantly greater clinical decision-making skills (p < .005). Nurse managers reported significantly higher self-efficacy levels compared to scrub/circulating nurses (p < .05). Age was positively correlated with self-efficacy (r = 0.373, p < .0001) but not with clinical decision-making ability. ConclusionThe research indicated that self-efficacy levels correspond with clinical decision-making capabilities of the operating room nurses. Higher education levels of the practitioners enhanced their clinical decision-making abilities. Nurse managers had higher self-efficacious beliefs than the scrub or circulating nurses. Age was positively associated with self-efficacy, but not with the scores on clinical decision-making abilities. The results of this study nurse leaders have higher GSES and CDMNS scores because they are experienced nurses with higher education degrees.