Value-conscious leadership actions in developing a health-promoting work environment

Background Nurse leaders play a vital role in fostering a health-promoting work environment. Despite the increasing recognition of the importance of their roles, studies focusing specifically on the actions they employ to foster such environments remain limited. Research aim The aim of this study is to explore and enhance understanding of the actions nurse leaders employ to develop a health-promoting work environment. Research design This study used a qualitative design inspired by Gadamer’s philosophical hermeneutics. Four semi-structured focus group interviews were conducted between August and December 2024. The data were analyzed using reflexive thematic analysis. Participants and research context Fourteen nurse leaders from hospitals and nursing homes in northern Norway participated in this study. Ethical considerations The study was approved by the Norwegian Agency for Shared Services in Education and Research. Both oral and written informed consent was obtained from the participants. Findings The actions employed by leaders to develop a health-promoting work environment are imbued with an overarching theme: “value-conscious leadership in action,” and four interwoven themes: (1) promoting justice by leading with equity and flexibility, (2) promoting relationships by cultivating an inclusive community, (3) respecting employees by fostering their empowerment and autonomy, and (4) facilitating professional growth by promoting a learning environment. Conclusions The basic values should be articulated, consciously integrated, and embodied through the nurse leader’s actions, choices, and way of being. To implement the basic values, it is important to establish supportive networks for leaders and to conduct regular ethical reflections together with employees in the workplace.