Every industry thrives when its leaders understand the nuances of organizational behavior, the study of how individuals act within an organization. This awareness is especially crucial in healthcare where behavioral dynamics directly impact patient care.
Nurse leaders and administrators play a pivotal role in fostering a healthy organizational culture, ensuring both caregivers and patients benefit. Students learn about the importance of insight in organizational theories and practices in programs like the William Paterson University (WP) online Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) – Nursing Administration program.
What Is Organizational Behavior in Healthcare?
Organizational behavior in healthcare refers to the study of how healthcare professionals — be it doctors, nurses or administrative staff — interact within the healthcare environment. This encompasses their attitudes, performance and overall satisfaction in the organization.
The primary goal of understanding organizational behavior is to enhance efficiency and promote a positive work environment, ultimately resulting in improved patient care. Investopedia offers an in-depth perspective on organizational behavior, noting its significance across multiple industries.
For example, this publication describes the importance of the “Hawthorne Effect,” which refers to the alteration in behavior by the subjects of a study when aware of being observed. In simpler terms, when people know they are being watched or studied, their behavior might change — often improving or becoming more positive.
Research reveals that human behavior in organizations is influenced by not only tangible factors like pay, work hours or environment but also intangible elements like recognition, perceived importance and feeling valued. The Hawthorne Effect was among the first empirical validations of this notion and has impacted organizational behavior in nursing.
Why Is Organizational Behavior Important?
In the healthcare sector, the stakes are high. Here, organizational behavior influences the employees and the well-being of the patients. According to a recent study, negative behavior and interaction of healthcare professionals influence patient outcomes. When nurse leaders understand and implement best practices in organizational behavior, they can:
- enhance team dynamics: fostering a positive work environment promotes better communication, collaboration and job satisfaction
- boost patient care: a harmonious workplace indirectly boosts patient satisfaction, as caregivers are more focused, content and efficient
- reduce turnover: leaders who understand the needs and motivations of their staff can help reduce turnover rates, ensuring continuity in patient care
Writing for Relias, Felicia Sadler emphasizes that “leadership in nursing practice directly impacts an organization’s drive, performance, and people.” Thus, understanding organizational behavior is a cornerstone of effective leadership in nursing.
What Role Do Nurse Leaders Play With Respect to Organizational Behavior in Healthcare?
Healthcare settings are often intense environments where emotions run high, and a minor miscommunication can have significant repercussions. Nurse leaders are at the forefront of managing these dynamics. As emphasized by the American Association of Colleges of Nursing (AACN), nurse leaders with a deep understanding of organizational behavior do the following:
- facilitate constructive communication: promotes open channels of dialogue, ensuring that team members feel heard and valued
- drive positive change: understanding the challenges and motivations of their teams so nurse leaders can implement changes that elevate the organization
- promote employee well-being: prioritizing the mental and emotional health of caregivers to ensure that they, in turn, offer the best care to patients
Equipping Nurse Leaders: The William Paterson University Approach
Recognizing the pivotal role that organizational behavior plays in healthcare, institutions like WP have integrated it into their curriculum. For example, WP’s online MSN – Nursing Administration program offers courses such as Foundations of Management and Principles of Nursing Administration that explore communication, change strategies and other aspects of administration affected by organizational concepts and behavior.
This program equips graduates with the skills to:
- understand the theoretical foundations of organizational behavior in healthcare settings
- implement best practices to promote a healthy organizational culture
- lead with insight, compassion and efficiency
Nurse Leaders’ Impact on the Future of Healthcare
As healthcare dynamics continue to evolve, the importance of understanding organizational behavior within nursing cannot be overstated. Nurse leaders and administrators are leading this evolution, ensuring the healthcare environment remains conducive to caregivers and patients. Through structured education and a genuine commitment to understanding the intricacies of organizational behavior, nurse leaders can truly make a difference.
Learn more about WP’s online MSN – Nursing Administration program.
