Emotional Intelligence and Job Satisfaction Among Nurses of a Tertiary Hospital

Abstract

Background: Emotional intelligence (EI) is increasingly recognized as a determinant of occupational outcome in nursing, including job satisfaction, staff retention, and quality of patient care. Despite its relevance, the relationship between EI and job satisfaction among nurses in Nepalese tertiary hospital settings remains insufficiently explored. This study aimed to assess the levels of emotional intelligence and job satisfaction among nurses and examine their association with demographic factors.

Methods: A cross-sectional analytical study was conducted among 200 nurses at Bir Hospital, Kathmandu, using non-probability convenience sampling. Following ethical clearance from the IRB of NAMS, data were collected through self-administered questionnaires from November to December 2024 using Schutte Self Report Emotional Intelligence Test (SSEIT) and Minnesota Satisfaction Questionnaire (MSQ) to assess EI and job satisfaction, respectively. Chi-square tests and Pearson’s correlation coefficient were employed for statistical analysis using SPSS version 20.

Results: The majority of participants were aged 20-29 years (62%), held Bachelor of Nursing qualification (79%), were married (67%), and had fewer than five years of nursing experience (51%). Emotional Intelligence levels were average in 77.5%, high in 15.5%, and low in 7.0%. Job satisfaction was average in 97% and high in 3%. Participants had a mean age of 28.96. Emotional Intelligence was significantly associated with age (p=0.021), total nursing experience (p=0.023), and in-service training (p=0.032). A moderate positive correlation existed between EI and job satisfaction (r=0.429, p<0.001).

Conclusion: Emotional intelligence is positively correlated with job satisfaction among nurses. Higher emotional intelligence corresponds to higher job satisfaction, likely due to enhanced stress management abilities, stronger interpersonal relationships and better adaptation to workplace challeng