Journal of Qualitative Research in Health Sciences
Journal of Qualitative Research in Health Sciences

The consequences of moral decision-making in nursing managers: a qualitative content analysis

Articles in Press

Document Type : Original Article

Authors

Somayeh Mohammadi 1
Ali Taj 2
Mostafa Roshanzadeh 1

1 Department of Nursing, Shahrekord University of Medical Sciences, Shahrekord, Iran

2 Department of Medical Emergencies, School of Allied Medical Sciences, Iranian Research Center on Healthy Aging, Sabzevar University of Medical Sciences, Sabzevar, Iran

10.22062/jqrhs.2026.201474.1630
Abstract
Introduction: Decision-making according to ethical principles in clinical environments confronts nursing managers with various consequences that can have an effective role in their future decisions. Therefore, the present research aimed to explain nursing managers' experiences with the consequences of moral decision-making.
Methods: The present research was conducted with the qualitative content analysis method at Shahrekord University of Medical Sciences in 2022. Eighteen nursing managers were purposefully selected, and information was gathered through semi-structured interviews, which were then analyzed using the Graneheim and Lundman method.
Results: The results were categorized into two main categories: Moral comfort )Peace of mind about past decisions and sensitivity to respecting the rights of others in decision-making, and Damage from the system (conflict between the manager and the system, confusion of managers due to ambiguous decision-making conditions, and endangering the management position).
Conclusion: These results indicate that ethical decision-making is not only an individual skill but also a complex process influenced by structural and organizational conditions that can have significant emotional and professional consequences for managers. Attention to strengthening ethical capabilities, organizational support, and clarifying decision-making policies can be effective in reducing these consequences.

Keywords

Moral
Decision-making
Nurse Administrators
Nurse Manager
Qualitative Study
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Journal of Qualitative Research in Health Sciences

Articles in Press, Accepted Manuscript
Available Online from 03 February 2026

  • Receive Date 13 July 2025
  • Revise Date 01 February 2026
  • Accept Date 03 February 2026

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