title: Emotional intelligence in relation to nursing leadership: does it matter?
abstract: OBJECTIVE
  Discuss the importance of studying emotional intelligence (EI) of nursing leaders and the job satisfaction of nursing staff.
  
  
  BACKGROUND
  The nursing shortage and issues with retention signifies the importance of assessing the influence nurse managers have on staff job satisfaction.
  
  
  RESULTS
  A review of the literature on the development of EI and the level of study involving nursing leadership was conducted to determine the need for further research in this area.
  
  
  RESULTS
  Neurobehavioural research involving the limbic system has indicated that EI can be learned through educational programmes.
  
  
  CONCLUSIONS
  There is a need for further research in the area of EI of nurse managers in their role as leaders and the impact they have on the job satisfaction level of their nursing staff.
  
  
  CONCLUSIONS
  The increasing nursing shortage and turnover rates signify the importance of research in the EI level of nursing leaders. Future research may include implementing educational programmes in the area of EI for nursing leaders resulting in a more positive work environment. Determining if EI influences nursing job satisfaction will provide a foundation for ongoing programme implementation to support and develop our nursing leaders.
authors: Indiana University School of Nursing, Bloomington, IN 47405, USA. reafeath@indiana.edu
authors: Rebecca
authors: R
authors: Feather
mesh_terms: D000223:Adaptation, Psychological; D056348:Emotional Intelligence; D004644:Emotions; D006801:Humans; D007588:Job Satisfaction; D007857:Leadership; D007858:Learning; D016294:Models, Nursing; D009726:Nurses / Q000523:psychology* / Q000706:statistics & numerical data / Q000600:supply & distribution; D009741:Nursing Staff, Hospital; D009745:Nursing, Supervisory; D013663:Teaching