Perceived level of emotional intelligence among nurses in a Nigerian tertiary hospital
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Date
2020
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
Journal of Positive Psychology and Counselling,
Abstract
Abstract
Emotional intelligence has been identified as an important ability that every nurse should
possess. Emotional intelligence enhances patient safety and the quality of care provided to them
by nurses. Therefore, it is important to conduct research studies to assess the level of emotional
intelligence of nurses. The aim of this study is to determine the perceived level of emotional
intelligence among nurses in a tertiary health institution in Nigeria.
A descriptive cross-sectional survey was conducted at the University of Ilorin Teaching
Hospital where 106 nurses participated. Majority of the participants were female (n=91, 85.8),
Christians (n=62, 58.5%) and mainly BNSc. graduates (n=45, 42.5%). Majority of the
participants had a high level of emotional intelligence (n=71, 67%). Nurses scored higher in the
self-motivation, empathy and social skills dimension than the other dimensions. Training on
emotional intelligence should be organized for nurses and other health professionals. Emotional
intelligence tests should be carried out in hospitals, prior to employing nurses.
Keywords: Emotional intelligence, nurses, healthcare