Date of Conferral
6-28-2025
Degree
Doctor of Business Administration (D.B.A.)
School
Business Administration
Advisor
Patsy Kasen
Abstract
Unsafe working conditions in hospitals can lead to increased turnover among nurses, which can disrupt patient care and the overall stability of the organization. This is a pressing issue for hospital executives, leaders, and nurses on the front lines, as workplace safety is essential for keeping staff, controlling costs, and ensuring high-quality care. Grounded in the job demands-resource theory, the purpose of this qualitative pragmatic inquiry study was to explore strategies hospital unit leaders use to create a safe work environment. The participants were six hospital unit leaders from different hospitals in the United States. Data were collected through semistructured interviews, related public records, and previous reviews. Through thematic analysis, four themes were identified: (a) challenge identification, (b) supportive environment, (c) security, and (d) communication and training. Hospital unit leaders can use these identified strategies to create a safe work environment for nurses. The implications for positive social change include the potential for hospital leaders to retain nurses, reduce turnover costs, and ensure sustained healthcare access for the community.
Recommended Citation
Jeffrey, Karen, "Hospital Unit Leaders’ Strategies in Maintaining Safe Work Environments" (2025). Walden Dissertations and Doctoral Studies. 18029.
https://scholarworks.waldenu.edu/dissertations/18029
