Abstract
OBJECTIVE: To synthesize the current evidence on the relationship between different management leadership styles and nurses' turnover intentions in hospital settings. BACKGROUND: A shortage of nurses is a common problem in healthcare institutions in many countries. In this context, retaining nurses has become a critical priority for healthcare organizations. METHODS: An integrative review was conducted. A comprehensive search strategy was implemented to retrieve articles from PubMed, Web of Science, CINAHL and the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials. Articles were screened and evaluated using a pre-determined eligibility criteria and a quality assessment process. RESULTS: Out of 237 articles screened, 17 studies met the inclusion criteria. Sixteen management leadership styles were identified, five of which transformational, ethical, inclusive, servant and authentic- were found to have a negative influence on nurses' turnover, and four were associated with a positive impact. We identified fourteen different instruments for measuring turnover intention. CONCLUSIONS: Healthcare managers should encourage the adoption of effective leadership styles to enhance nurse retention and embed this approach within the organizational culture of the healthcare facilities. CLINICAL TRIAL NUMBER: Not applicable.