Exploring Leadership Behaviors of Visiting Nurse Managers That Contribute to Job Retention Among Visiting Nurses

Abstract

Objective: This study aimed to explore the leadership behaviors of visiting nurse managers that contribute to job retention among visiting nurses.

Methods: Semi-structured interviews were conducted with 20 participants, including 10 visiting nurse managers and 10 visiting nurses. The data were analyzed qualitatively and inductively using the Steps for Coding and Theorization (SCAT) method.

Results: A total of 353 segments related to managers’ leadership behaviors were extracted for all cases. These segments were categorized into five overarching themes: psychological safety, ability to inspire others, emotional intelligence, advanced practical competence, and leading by example. Additionally, 39 subcategories of leadership behavior were identified.

Conclusion: The leadership behaviors identified in this study were not limited to a single style. Still, they represented a multidimensional and practical set of actions tailored to the context of home-visit nursing. These behaviors included elements that conventional leadership theories in hospital-based settings have not fully captured and may serve as a foundation for future theoretical development and practical application.