Improving the interpersonal competences of head nurses through Peplau's theoretical active learning approach

Background: Effective interpersonal skills are essential for head nurses in governing and managing their work units. Therefore, an active learning strategy could be the key to enhance the interpersonal competences of head nurses. Purpose: This study aimed to investigate the effects of Peplau's theoretical approach of active learning on the improvement of head nurses’ interpersonal skills. Method: This study used a pre-experimental design with one group having pretests and posttests, without control group. A total sample of 25 head nurses from inpatient units of a wellknown private hospital in Jakarta was involved in the study. Data were analyzed using the paired t-test. Results: The results showed a significant increase in head nurses’ knowledge following the training to strengthen their interpersonal roles (P =.003). The results also revealed significant increases in the head nurses’ skills in playing the roles of leader (P =.006), guardian (P =.014), and teacher/speaker (P =.015). Nonetheless, the results showed no significant increases in the head nurses’ skills in playing the roles of counselor (P =.092) and stranger (P =.182). Conclusions and recommendations: Training in strengthening the interpersonal roles of head nurses significantly increased the head nurses’ knowledge and skills. The results of the study suggested the continuation of active learning strategies to improve the interpersonal abilities of head nurses. Furthermore, these strategies could be used to build the abilities of head nurses in other managerial fields.