First-line Nurse Managerial Competence and Its Influencing Factors in Public Jordanian Hospitals

Background: First-line Nurse Managers (FLNMs) occupy pivotal positions within healthcare systems, responsible for various administrative and caregiving functions. While FLNMs are integral to efficient healthcare services, their competencies and the factors influencing them still need to be explored in this region. In light of the need for more research on FLNM competencies in Jordan, this study is paramount for advancing healthcare in the country.Purpose: This study aimed to analyze FLNM competencies and its influencing factors within the unique context of Jordan's healthcare system.Methods: As a cross-sectional study, the research leveraged online platforms to disseminate the 130 FLNM to three Jordan's central region public hospitals with random sampling method. FLNM questionnaire was used to collect the data. Univariate analysis comprised numerical data (M, median, mode, SD) and categorical data (percentage and proportion). Pearson, independent t test and multiple linear regression were used to analyzed the data.Results: Based on responses from 130 FLNMs, the study's results demonstrated their average age to be approximately 37.8 years, with a significant proportion holding master's degrees, indicating a highly educated cohort. Notably, many FLNMs were charge nurses, reflecting their extensive experience and commitment to enhancing their leadership competencies. The study found no significant correlation between age and FLNM competencies, suggesting that competence is not solely contingent upon years of experience or age (p>0.05). The research revealed the highest to the lowest significance in FLNM performance were leadership training (b=21.15, 95%CI=7.70-34.60, p=0.002), gender-based disparities (b=16.50, 95%CI=4.41-28.58, p=0.008) and social status (b=7.86, 95%CI=1.13-14.60, p=0.02), respectively. Conclusion: This gender difference may be influenced by cultural or contextual factors unique to the Jordanian healthcare landscape, warranting further exploration. The research highlights the need for tailored training and support programs to improve the competencies of FLNMs in Jordan's healthcare system, highlighting gender-based differences and the need for personalized healthcare management strategies to improve healthcare quality.