The quality of the supervisor–nurse relationship and its influence on nurses’ job satisfaction

Abstract

Background: Leader–Member Exchange theory provides strategic information about how to improve the leader´s role and nurses’ satisfaction on healthcare organizations. Objectives: The main objective of this research was to study the quality of the supervisor–nurse relationship in relation to the nurses´ job satisfaction. This research also analyses how the relationship between Leader–Member exchanges and nurse job satisfaction could be moderated by other variables, such as nurse psychological empowerment, nurse-perceived organizational support and Leader–Leader Exchange. Methods: The sample comprises of 2541 registered nurses who work in public hospitals in the Autonomous Region of Aragon (Spain). Regression analyses were conducted. Results: The statistically significant results demonstrate the influence that the supervisor's leadership exerts on the job satisfaction of the nurse. Conclusions: The moderating variables (Empowerment, Perceived Organizational Support and Leader–Leader relationship) play an important role explaining the job satisfaction of the nurse. Deepening in these relationships could help us implement precise strategies to improve the nurse organizational commitment and the quality of health care performance.