Abstract
AIM: To explore nurse managers' perceptions of patient-centered care (PCC), its influence on quality nursing care, nurse job satisfaction, and to provide baseline data for a context-driven PCC model. DESIGN: The study utilized a qualitative, phenomenological design, employing individual in-depth interviews to collect data on nurse managers' PCC perceptions until data saturation. METHODS: Sampling involved purposive selection of Northern Ghana, random selection of the tertiary hospital cluster with the three participating hospitals, and purposive sampling of the nine nurse managers. Data analysis employed thematic analysis based on a six-phase framework. Methodological trustworthiness was ensured through various strategies including prolonged engagement, supervisor discussions and crosschecking with interviewees. RESULTS: Three main themes emerged from the study including nurse managers' conceptualization of PCC, perceived patient-centred practices and its influence on nursing quality and job satisfaction. The findings emphasized the patient's individuality, cultural values, holistic care, the importance of strong nurse-patient relationships and a patient-centric environment. The nurse managers perceived PCC as positively influencing quality nursing care and nurse job satisfaction. The findings offer nuanced insights into nurse managers' perspectives on patient-centeredness and highlight areas for improvement.