Emotional intelligence and nursing: An integrative literature review

Findings of an integrative literature review related to emotional intelligence (EI) and nursing reveal widespread support of EI concepts in nursing, and theoretical and editorial literature confirms Ei concepts are central to nursing practice.

Abstract

This literature reveals widespread support of EI concepts in nursing. Theoretical and editorial literature confirms EI concepts are central to nursing practice. EI needs to be explicit within nursing education as EI might impact the quality of student learning, ethical decision-making, critical thinking, evidence and knowledge use in practice. Emotionally intelligent leaders influence employee retention, quality of patient care and patient outcomes. EI research in nursing requires development and careful consideration of criticisms related to EI outside nursing is recommended.