Intensive Care Unit Nurses’ Organizational Climate and Clinical Competency in Saudi Government Hospitals: Cross-Sectional and Multicenter Study

Abstract

Aims and Objectives: To investigate the connection between organizational climate and clinical competency among intensive care unit (ICU) nurses in government hospitals in Saudi Arabia.

Background: Across the Middle Eastern healthcare settings, studies that explored the link between organizational climate and clinical competency among ICU nurses remain underreported.

Methods: This cross-sectional study involved 206 ICU nurses from seven government hospitals in the Ha’il Region, Saudi Arabia. Two validated self-report scales were utilized to gather data from August to September 2023. Descriptive and inferential statistics were used to analyze the data.

Results: Most ICU nurses were female, aged 31–35 years, married, with a Bachelor of Science in Nursing degree, and had 4–6 years of ICU experience. The organizational climate was perceived positively by 98.10% of nurses, with the highest mean score for independent practice and support. The clinical competency mean score was at a middle level, with the highest mean score for clinical care. Significant differences were noted between organizational climate and age, marital status, educational attainment, years of experience, and hospital assigned. Also, significant differences were demonstrated between clinical competency and gender, marital status, and daily patient workload. Finally, there was a positive correlation between organizational climate and clinical competency.

Conclusion: The study revealed a positive perception of organizational climate among ICU nurses, with a moderate level of clinical competency. The hospital administrators and policymakers can focus on the enhancement of the organizational climate to further support and develop ICU nurses’ competencies.

Implications for Nursing Management: Nurse managers and healthcare administrators should cultivate a positive organizational climate and enhance clinical competency to ensure nursing care quality and improved client outcomes among ICU nurses, thereby promoting commitment, retention, and professional relationships of the workforce.