Exploring Different Aspects of Nursing Leadership: An Integrative Review of Qualitative Studies

Context: Leadership is the process of influencing people to achieve common goals. In all nurses' roles, leadership is emphasized since nurse leaders' attitudes influence nurses’ job satisfaction and retention and, consequently, the quality of care. Objective: This study aimed to explore the scientific literature concerning different aspects of leadership in nursing. Methods: This is an integrative review of qualitative studies in which four electronic databases (Medline, PubMed, Scopus, and Google Scholar) were searched. Articles published in the last ten years (2013 - 2022) were searched by titles using the descriptors "qualitative," "leadership," and "nursing" linked by the Boolean Operator AND. The search carried out in July 2022 was not limited by the publication language. A total of 63 studies were identified, and 11 original primary research articles were included. The quality of articles was assessed using the Critical Appraisal Skills Program (CASP). Qualitative content analysis was performed to analyze the obtained data. Results: The results were organized into three categories: (1) the importance of nursing leadership and leaders' roles; (2) ethical leadership; and (3) nursing leadership education. Personal characteristics of nurse leaders and leadership skills were indicated as factors influencing staff nurses’ attitudes and reflecting on the quality of care. Training in nursing leadership since the early years of nursing education is essential for future nursing leaders. Conclusions: Nurse leaders influence other team members and patients; consequently, nursing leadership impacts the quality of care. Therefore, training on leadership should be addressed in nursing schools in undergraduate and postgraduate courses and health institutions through continuing education.