The Relationship Between the Emotional Intelligence and Clinical Decision-Making Among Nurses in Neonatal Intensive Care Units

Abstract

Introduction: Emotional intelligence (EI) is crucial for managing stress, enhancing well-being, and improving clinical decision-making (CDM). In neonatal intensive care units (NICUs), where rapid decisions, emotional demands, and complex interactions are common, understanding how EI supports CDM is key to ensuring high-quality care and effective outcomes. Objective: This study aimed to explore the relationship between EI and CDM among NICU nurses. Methods: The study was cross-sectional in design and used a convenience sample of 178 NICU nurses. Data collection gathered by paper-based between 10 January and 10 April 2024, employing the “Schutte Self-Report Emotional Intelligence Test” and the “CDM Scale.” Results: The analysis revealed that the average EI score among participants was 151.9±1.7 (range: 33–165, CI =151.613– 152.096), reflecting a high level of EI. High EI in the NICU context is characterized by nurses’ ability to manage their own stress effectively, empathize with families facing emotional distress, and maintain composure in high-pressure situations. Similarly, participants demonstrated a high level of CDM, with an average score of 179.6±8.6 (range: 40–200, CI = 178.349–180.770). High CDM involves making accurate and timely clinical decisions, such as assessing neonatal conditions, prioritizing interventions, and collaborating with interdisciplinary teams to ensure optimal outcomes. A significant positive relationship was found between EI and CDM (r =0.53, p < .001, effect size=0.8). Furthermore, EI was a significant predictor of enhanced accuracy, timeliness, and prioritization in CDM (p < .001, CI=1.991–3.337). Conclusion: Nurses in NICUs demonstrated both high EI and strong CDM skills. A positive association between these two variables was evident.