The Relationship between Emotional Intelligence and Clinical Performance among Maternity Nursing Students in the Labor Unit

Emotional intelligence (EI) stands as a critical component in the healthcare professions, particularly in maternity nursing, where the ability to navigate complex interpersonal relationships and effectively communicate with women, families, and colleagues is paramount. Aim: To determine the relationship between emotional intelligence and clinical performance among maternity nursing students in the labor unit. Research design: A descriptive correlational design was utilized . Setting: The study was conducted in the labor unit at Al-Hussein University hospital . Sample: A convenience sample of all third year students (N=60) who were registered at maternity nursing and gynaecology course .Tools: Two tools were used. Firstly, a structured interview schedule was utilized regarding two aspects: (A) demographic characteristics and (B) the Schutte Self-Report Emotional Intelligence Test. Secondly, a clinical performance evaluation was conducted, which consisted of two components: (A) a performance checklist for labor area procedures and (B) an evaluation of supportive clinical performance skills. Result: There was a highly statistical positive correlation between students' Emotional intelligence and their total clinical performance at (p≤ 0.05).On the other hand there was not statistically significant between the studied students' demographic characteristic and their total clinical performance &emotional intelligence p> 0.05 except age, there was a statistically significant difference. Conclusion: based on the findings of the present study, it was determined that the clinical performance of nursing students was significantly influenced by their levels of emotional intelligence. Recommendations: Enhance emotional intelligence (EI) abilities by applying training courses and seminars about EI order to improve
maternity students’ EI skills.