Nurses Innovative Behaviour in the Context of Authentic Leadership: A Scoping Review

ABSTRACT

Aim

This scoping review aims to explore the existing research on the impact of authentic leadership on nurses' innovative behaviours.

Data Sources

The following databases were searched (from 2013 to 2023): PubMed, Cumulative Index to Nursing and Allied Health Literature, Cochrane Library, Embase, Scopus, APA Psych Info, Educational Resources Information Centre, and ABI Inform.

Review Methods

Search results were exported into Covidence software to assist with the selection and assessment of retrieved studies. Studies were included that specifically examined the relationship between authentic leadership and innovative behaviour among nurses working in healthcare settings.

Results

12 papers remained for full-text review after title and abstract screening. Four studies that met the inclusion criteria were included in the final analysis. Using the Crowe Critical Appraisal Tool two reviewers independently evaluated these four studies. Findings revealed that authentic leadership affects nurses' innovation and creativity in various healthcare settings and cultural contexts. It also highlighted mediating factors such as increased engagement and knowledge sharing. Resilience and technological infrastructure were identified as additional factors that affect and support this relationship and influence the development and enaction of innovative behaviours.

Conclusions

Authentic leadership was found to contribute to innovative nursing behaviours that have important implications for the best practices in healthcare and outcomes.

Impact

Innovative behaviour among nurses is essential for rising to the challenges of complex healthcare environmental challenges, and the potential for authentic leadership to act as a catalyst for this is important. Future research needs to further explore the impact of authentic leadership on innovative behaviour and the contextual and cultural influences that effect this. More research is also needed on the exact nature of nurses' innovations and their potential use in healthcare.

Reporting Method

The EQUATOR guidelines for PRISMA have been met.

Patient or Public Contribution

No patient or public contribution.