Emotional intelligence as A predictor of caring behaviors in icu nurses: Implications for nursing management in resource-limited settings

BackgroundThe emotional demands in resource-limited ICUs challenge nursing management. Trait emotional intelligence (trait EI) is a key competency, yet its link to nurses' valuation of caring behaviors remains underexplored.ObjectiveTo assess the relationship between trait EI and the self-reported importance of caring behaviors among ICU nurses in Palestine. This study explicitly examines nurses' perceived importance of caring behaviors rather than observed clinical performance, a distinction maintained throughout.MethodsA cross-sectional study surveyed 228 ICU nurses using the SSEIT and CBAN-SF. To mitigate social desirability bias, anonymity was guaranteed and questionnaire order counterbalanced. All regression analyses report VIF and Tolerance values confirming no multicollinearity.ResultsParticipants reported high trait EI (M = 118.1, SD = 11.1) and caring behavior importance (M = 99.6, SD = 10.0). A strong positive correlation was identified (r = 0.671, p < 0.001). Regression identified trait EI as the strongest predictor (B = 0.562, p < 0.001, 95% CI [0.473, 0.651]). Multicollinearity diagnostics confirmed acceptable VIF (< 2.5) and Tolerance (> 0.40).ConclusionsThis study confirms trait EI significantly predicts the value nurses place on caring behaviors in resource-limited ICUs. Conclusions pertain to perceived valuation of caring, not directly observed performance. EI development represents a viable, human-focused strategy to enhance staff resilience and care quality. The novel contribution lies in demonstrating this relationship within the understudied context of Palestinian ICUs.