Characteristics of an ethical leader: A qualitative content analysis of Iranian nurses' experiences

Introduction: Leaders' personal characteristics help followers understand them as an ethical leader and increase their attractiveness and credibility as a functional role model. The objective of this study was to identify the characteristics of an ethical leader from Iranian nurses' points of view. Methods: This was a qualitative study based on conventional content analysis, in 2015. Data were collected using deep and semistructured interviews with 17 Iranian nurses. The participants were chosen using purposive sampling until data saturation. For data analysis, MAXQDA 10 software was used based on the conventional content analysis. Findings: The findings emerged as four main categories and 13 subcategories. The categories consist of personal characteristics and professional, leadership, and ethical capabilities. Personal characteristics consist of personal attributes and adherence to religious beliefs. Professional capability consists of interest in the profession, scientific ability, law-abidingness, and dutifulness. Leadership capability consists of charismatic features, effectiveness, and ability to manage emotions and behaviors. Ethical capability consists of moralism, altruism, ethical sensitivity, and ethical courage. Conclusion: Findings of this study help promote characteristics of ethical leaders in nursing, development of an ethical leadership, and ultimately promotion of quality of nursing care.