The influence of nursing leaders' behavior on nurses' job satisfaction: A quantitative study in Hail, Saudi Arabia

Abstract

This cross-sectional quantitative study investigates the intricate relationships between the demographic characteristics of nurses and their perceptions of leader behavior and job satisfaction within the healthcare context of Hail, Saudi Arabia. The primary aim is to establish the pertinence of nursing leaders' behaviors in shaping the perceptions and job satisfaction levels of nursing professionals. A sample of 716 nurses was selected using a simple random sampling method, with participants completing questionnaires administered through online software. Two validated instruments were employed: the 19-item Leadership Behavior Description Questionnaire (LBDQ), exhibiting excellent reliability (Cronbach's alpha of 0.955), and the 20-item Minnesota Satisfaction Questionnaire (MSQ), also demonstrating excellent reliability (Cronbach's alpha of 0.968). Results indicate a moderate level of job satisfaction with a significant association observed with respect to age. However, nurses' perceptions of nursing leaders' behaviors did not exhibit significant variations concerning age, education, or experience. Similarly, no substantial correlations were found between job satisfaction, experience, and education. These findings align with previous studies, emphasizing that job satisfaction is primarily contingent on a supportive work environment rather than organizational structure or nursing care delivery models. Consequently, the behavior of leaders towards their staff emerges as a crucial determinant of staff satisfaction, offering a substantial solution for staff retention and fostering a positive work culture. Such improvements can enhance staff competence, skills, and overall quality, ultimately ensuring the provision of safe patient care.