An exploratory study of recognition behaviors practiced by mid-level nurse managers and perceived by mid-level staff nurses.

Objectives: This study explored mid-level nurse managers' recognition behaviors and the perception of those behaviors by mid-level staff nurses. This information is needed for nurse manager training, and may improve nurses' work engagement and retention in the workforce. Methods: was used for deductive analysis. Inductive analysis enabled emergence of new themes. Results: . Mid-level nurse managers practiced behaviors such as ensuring recognition from appropriate individuals and considering nurses' family situations. Staff nurses emphasized the importance of involvement in ward operations, receiving recognition from managers, and being entrusted with mentoring roles. Certain recognition behaviors were common across both groups. However, some managers expressed uncertainty regarding the effectiveness of their recognition practices. Conclusion: This study identified key recognition behaviors commonly understood by mid-level nurse managers and staff nurses. These shared behaviors could serve as foundational elements for developing educational programs that support mid-level nurse managers in practicing recognition behaviors more consciously and effectively. Such programs may contribute to fostering work engagement and improving retention of mid-level staff nurses.