Authentic and congruent leadership providing excellent work environment in palliative care

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to describe the perceptions of registered nurses (RNs), enrolled nurses (ENs), and leaders (i.e. the first‐line nurse manager, F‐LNM and the substitute F‐LNM) as to what characterises an excellent work environment in a palliative care unit and the involvement of leadership in that environment.

Design/methodology/approach

Data were collected using two separate instruments: a questionnaire, group interviews with nurses and leaders, and documents at a palliative care unit. Qualitative content analysis was used to analyse the material.

Findings

According to the participants, the most important component at the palliative care unit was to accomplish the vision of good palliative care. Congruence in leadership, mature group functioning, adequate organisational structures and resources, and comprehensive and shared meaningfulness were all identified as essential components for fulfilling the vision.

Originality/value

This study indicates that fulfilling the vision of good palliative care may function as a buffer against stress in such a workplace

Citation

Johansson, G., Sandahl, C. and Andershed, B. (2011), "Authentic and congruent leadership providing excellent work environment in palliative care", Leadership in Health Services, Vol. 24 No. 2, pp. 135-149. https://doi.org/10.1108/17511871111125701