| Description |
Qualitative and quantitative research methodologies were combined to explore the concept of 'fit,' and the role of the head nurse in unit performance and staff satisfaction. The contingency model of leadership effectiveness (leadership match) and vertical dyad linkage model of management were tested for applicability in the hospital setting. Twenty-five assistant directors of nursing, 87 head nurses, and 296 staff nurses participated in the study. Assistant directors of nursing were interviewed to define performance on the units they supervised, and to explain why units that performed well did so. Participants were asked to complete questionnaires for leadership match, vertical dyad linkages, and staff satisfaction. Assistant directors of nursing identified a variety of unit-based, hospital-based, and externally-based variables that influenced unit performance. All assistant directors of nursing identified the head nurse as the key factor influencing unit performance. The majority of assistant directors identified fit and the matching of styles, personalities, and circumstances as important variables in unit performance. Other variables identified as influencing performance included: head nurse clinical and management skills, administrative and staff support, patient care delivery system, resource allocation, patient acuity, interactions with other disciplines, culture, and environment. Findings did not support the leadership match model. Of the leadership match variables (leadership style and situation control), only leadership style demonstrated significance. A relationship style of leadership was associated with units that performed well. Situation control was not identified as a significant variable in unit performance. Head nurses with relationship-oriented leadership styles were more frequently associated with 'in-group' relationships (positive vertical dyad linkages) with their supervisors than were head nurses with task-oriented leadership styles. Unit performance and staff satisfaction were the two outcome variables. Staff satisfaction was associated with 'in-group' relationships (positive vertical dyad linkages) between staff nurses and their supevisors. Satisfaction was not associated with the leadership match variables. |
