Perceived importance of emotional intelligence for clinical pharmacy practice and directions for its improvement: a focus group study

Abstract

Abstract Background Emotional intelligence (EI) is a critical set of skills that impacts clinical pharmacists’ well-being and positively influences high-level patient-centered care. Providing pharmacists’ perceptions may support the integration of EI development approaches into their professional development continuum. Objective This research aimed to analyse pharmacists’ perceptions of the characteristics of emotionally intelligent clinical pharmacists, the importance of EI in clinical practice, and educational models and approaches to enhancing EI. Method A qualitative study with a focus group methodology was conducted with pharmacy practitioners using a semistructured guide grounded in the EI competency framework and existing qualitative research methodology practices. Purposive sampling was conducted until information and meaning saturation had occurred. The focus group recordings were transcribed and independently coded by two researchers. Pharmacists' attitudes were categorized and examined through descriptive statistics. The conventional content analysis of qualitative data was applied. Results According to the 17 focus group participants, emotionally intelligent clinical pharmacists are perceived as self-confident communicators who control and manage emotions, work well under pressure, and handle every situation effectively. Emotional self-control, self-awareness and awareness of others, and demonstration of tolerance, understanding, and empathy have emerged as key EI competencies required for challenges in clinical practice. EI lectures with clinical application reflections, behavior modelling, and behavior-changing methods were perceived to be of particular importance for pharmacist education and development programs. Conclusions Clinical pharmacists and other practitioners perceived EI competencies as necessary for their professional success and high-quality patient-centered care. They suggested that they be a focal point in pharmacy professional development programs.