Work

Analysis of the current status and associated factors of innovative leadership among male nurses in China: a cross-sectional study

Year: 2026

Type: article

Abstract: Objective To investigate the current state of innovative leadership among male nurses in Grade A, Level 3 hospitals in Henan Province, China, and analyze factors associated with innovative leadership, thereby providing an empirical basis for developing targeted intervention strategies. Methods Using convenience sampling, 222 male nurses from eight Grade A, Level 3 hospitals in Henan Province, China, were selected as study participants between February and June 2025. The survey was conducted using a general data questionnaire, the Innovative Leadership Scale, and the Clinical Thinking Diagnostic of Frontline Nurses. Results The median score of innovative leadership among male nurses was 154.00 (141.00, 168.00). Innovative leadership was positively correlated with critical thinking ( r = 0.663, P < 0.01). In an enter multiple linear regression model, job role, number of published papers, participation in innovative leadership conferences/training, and critical thinking were independently associated with innovative leadership ( P < 0.05), and the model explained 76.4% of the total variance. Conclusion Male nurses working in tertiary hospitals in Henan Province showed a moderate level of innovative leadership. Nursing managers should monitor male nurses' innovative thinking and practical behaviors, and implement personalized strategies based on associated factors to support the development of innovative leadership and continuous improvement in nursing service quality.

Source: Frontiers in Medicine

DOI: 10.3389/fmed.2026.1920462