Interventions Aimed At Improving Emotional Intelligence in Nursing Students: An Integrative Literature Review
Abstract
Emotional intelligence (EI) is increasingly recognized as crucial in nursing education and practice, driving this integrative review on interventions improving EI in nursing students. A comprehensive literature search through CINAHL, ERIC, Cochrane, and PsycINFO, supplemented by hand searching, included EI-focused studies for nursing students, assessed using the Johns Hopkins Nursing Evidence-Based Practice Checklist. Seventeen studies from eight countries (2015–2024) revealed diverse interventions—experiential learning, mindfulness, self-care training, lectures, digital storytelling, and simulation-based approaches—demonstrating consistent effectiveness in multiple specialties. Mindfulness and self-care significantly improved EI; effectiveness was not duration-dependent, underscoring content and delivery over length. While experiential learning holds value, integrating mindfulness, self-care, and reflective practices may offer stronger EI benefits. Future research should employ larger randomized controlled trials with standardized EI measures and longitudinal designs to assess lasting impacts. Nursing education programs should adopt a holistic EI approach, prioritizing both personal growth and professional competence.
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