The Relationship Between Spiritual Intelligence and Caring Behavior in Nurses Working in Pediatric Care wards

Abstract

Background: This study examines the relationship between spiritual intelligence and caring behavior in nurses working in pediatric wards. Objectives: The research aims to identify how spiritual intelligence influences nurses' caregiving quality, offering novel insight into enhancing nursing practices in pediatric care.Methods: A cross-sectional descriptive-correlational design was employed in 2023 - 2024, involving 115 nurses from Dr. Sheikh Hospital's pediatric wards in Mashhad. Nurses with a minimum of 3 months of experience in pediatric care and active involvement in caregiving activities were selected through stratified random sampling. Data were collected using a demographic questionnaire, Wolf's Caring Behavior Questionnaire, and King's Spiritual Intelligence Questionnaire. The surveys were administered during morning and evening shifts.Results: The mean score of caring behavior from the nurses' perspective was 234.37 ± 15.25, while the mean score of spiritual intelligence was 53.01 ± 14.16. There was a significant correlation between spiritual intelligence and caring behavior (r = 0.36, P = 0.01). Additionally, age and employment status were significant predictors of caring behavior.Conclusions: The findings suggest that spiritual intelligence significantly influences the caring behavior of nurses in pediatric units. Enhancing nurses' spiritual intelligence could improve caregiving quality. Additionally, increased organizational support, job stability, and security are recommended further to enhance caring behaviors and the overall quality of care.