AIM

The aim of this study is to explore the perceptions of Chinese registered nurses on toxic leadership behaviours of nurse managers and to determine its type, cause and response measures.

BACKGROUND

The nurse manager is the front-line leader of the nurses who provide services directly to patients. Previous evidence suggests that toxic leadership behaviours of nurse managers do exist and it is necessary to understand the specifics of it.

METHODS

We used phenomenological research methods to conduct semi-structured in-depth interviews among 12 nurses at a tertiary hospital in Wuhan over the period from January to March 2022. And the data were analysed using Colaizzi seven-step analysis method.

RESULTS

Four themes were discovered: (a) nurses' perceptions of toxic leadership behaviours; (b) toxic leadership behaviours of nurse managers; (c) reasons for toxic leadership behaviours of nurse managers and (d) measures for toxic leadership behaviours of nurse managers.

CONCLUSION

Chinese nurses are exposed to the toxic leadership of nurse managers for multiple reasons and respond differently.

IMPLICATIONS FOR NURSING MANAGEMENT

This study helps nursing managers identify which behaviours are harmful to the nurse that require special attention in developing strategies to buffer against nurse managers' toxic leadership.