Trust between nursing management and staff in critical care: a literature review

AIM: This paper aims to provide a comprehensive review of the topic of trust between nurses and nurse managers in the context of critical care units. METHOD: A comprehensive literature review exploring the concept of trust between nurse and nurse managers was undertaken. Search terms were used both singularly and in combination and 71 relevant citations were found. Abstracts were read and in total 20 peer reviewed articles were retained as a result of consistency with project aims. RESULTS: Trust emerged as an essential component in the nurse-patient relationship. However, trust among staff and management received little attention. CONCLUSIONS: Trust emerges as an important attribute of effective nurse managers. Nurse managers need to appreciate the importance of fostering a trustworthy relationship with subordinates. Engendering trust between management and staff empowers staff and has positive organizational outcomes.