Associations and Predictive Pathways Between Shared Governance, Autonomy, Magnet Status, Nurse-Sensitive Indicators, and Nurse Satisfaction

Abstract

Background: Evidence is limited to the effects of shared governance (SG) and autonomy on nurse-sensitive indicators (NSIs). Purpose: To explore the effects of SG, autonomy, and Magnet status on nurse and patient outcomes. Methods: A cross-sectional survey study was conducted using a convenience sample of 404 nurses from 4 hospitals. Descriptive analyses of variance (ANOVAs), and path analysis were conducted to identify hypothesized associations and predictive pathways among study variables. Results: Nurse managers reported higher perceptions of SG, autonomy, and satisfaction than staff nurses. SG and autonomy were significant predictors of patient falls and hospital-acquired pressure injuries. Nurses' autonomy, SG, and Magnet accreditation were significant predictors of nurse satisfaction. Conclusions: Leadership support of SG and autonomous practice are key strategies to improve nurse satisfaction and NSI outcomes.