Abstract
Introduction: Nursing managers are responsible for effective leadership and decision-making in healthcare organizations, making critical thinking an essential competency for successful management. Therefore, this study aimed to investigate the relationship between critical thinking and managerial skills among nursing managers.
Methods: This descriptive-analytical study included 78 nursing managers. Data were collected using a demographic questionnaire, the California Critical Thinking Skills Test, and the Kaufman Management Skills Questionnaire. Finally, independent t-tests and Pearson correlation analysis were used for data analysis.
Results: The mean age of participants was 39.51 ± 5.55 years, and 69.2% were female. Managers with postgraduate education demonstrated significantly higher critical thinking and management skills than those with undergraduate education. Moreover, greater work experience (> 10 years) and participation in training programs were associated with higher scores, whereas gender, age, and managerial position showed no significant associations. Ultimately, critical thinking was positively but weakly correlated with management skills (r = 0.28, P = 0.047).
Conclusion: Higher education, professional training, and clinical experience contribute to stronger critical thinking and managerial skills, highlighting the importance of continuous education, mentorship, and reflective practice in nursing management.