Conflict occurrence and preferred management styles among ICU nurses during the first wave of COVID-19 pandemic: A cross-sectional study in Saudi Arabia

Abstract

Background: Intensive care units (ICUs) have been overwhelmed by the increasing number of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) cases, causing psychological burdens, stress, and various types of conflict among nurses.

Aim: To examine the occurrence, type, and intensity of conflict and preferred management styles among ICU nurses during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Study design: This cross-sectional descriptive study was conducted in a government hospital in Saudi Arabia using a convenience sample of 95 nurses from three ICUs. Data were collected using an e-questionnaire comprising the Nursing Conflict Scale, Rahim Organizational Conflict Inventory-II, and sociodemographic variables.

Results: Most participants reported exposure to moderately (64.2%) or highly (34.79%) intense conflict during the pandemic. The competitive (2.23 ± .472) and intragroup (2.23 ± .385) types of conflict were the most frequently reported. The preferred conflict management style was collaborating (21.85 ± 5.49), followed by accommodating (18.39 ± 4.03). Pearson's correlation analysis showed that age, years of experience, and education were significantly associated with conflict type and management style. Preparedness to care for suspected or confirmed COVID-19 cases was associated with interpersonal conflict (r = .20, p = .04).

Conclusions: The participants experienced moderate- to high-intensity conflict; however, they employed constructive rather than destructive management styles.

Relevance to clinical practice: Nurse leaders, policymakers, and educators must initiate transformational intervention programmes to enhance and sustain nurses' competencies in constructive conflict management strategies. Interpersonal communication and crisis management training programmes should be formulated to raise nurses' awareness and enhance their competencies vis-à-vis taking a positive approach to overcoming various conflict types and levels, particularly during crises.

Keywords: COVID-19 pandemic; conflict management; developing nursing roles; intensive care nurses; workforce issues.