Challenges and Coping Strategies of Nurse Managers in Healthcare Institutions
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.65339/ijsis.V1.I2.128Keywords:
Burnout, Coping Strategies, Healthcare Institutions, Nurse Managers, Occupational Stress, Organizational Support, Staffing Shortages, Workforce SustainabilityAbstract
This study examined the challenges and coping strategies of nurse managers in healthcare institutions, emphasizing occupational demands, managerial well-being, and organizational support. Guided by the Job Demands–Resources Theory and the Transactional Model of Stress and Coping, the study employed a descriptive research design using a focused narrative synthesis of seven purposively selected empirical studies published between 2022 and 2026. A structured documentary data-extraction framework was used to organize qualitative and quantitative findings from healthcare institutions in the Philippines and six other countries. Results identified staffing shortages, excessive workload, competing clinical and administrative responsibilities, and occupational stress as recurring managerial challenges. A study involving 116 nurse managers revealed a significant positive correlation between occupational stress and burnout (r = .58, p < .001), while problem-focused coping was reported more frequently (M = 3.83) than emotion-focused coping (M = 2.54). Positive associations were identified between managerial well-being and empowering leadership, social support, psychological capital, and workplace resources. Nurse managers employed problem-solving, workload management, communication, and collaboration; however, organizational constraints limited the implementation of these strategies. The study concluded that effective nursing management requires both individual coping capabilities and adequate institutional support. Strengthening staffing adequacy, leadership development, workplace wellness, and resource allocation is recommended. The study supports Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 3, Good Health and Well-Being, and SDG 8, Decent Work and Economic Growth, by addressing healthcare workforce well-being and supportive working conditions. Its potential sustainability impact lies in informing institutional policies that strengthen nursing leadership, workforce stability, and healthcare service continuity. Findings are limited to the selected published studies and are not statistically generalizable to all healthcare institutions.
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Copyright (c) 2026 John Erwin V. Cruz, MSN, RN (Author)
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