Gender and managerial competence: a comparison of male and female first-line nurse managers in Indonesia

Objective First-line nurse managers are more likely to work according to gender beliefs and stereotypes, which may affect their managerial competence. This study is aimed at comparing managerial competence of male and female first-line nurse managers in public hospitals in Indonesia. Methods This study employed a descriptive comparative approach with a cross-sectional survey with a total of 256 participants selected from 18 public hospitals. To measure managerial competence, the managerial competence scale for Indonesian first-line nurse managers was used. Data were analyzed using descriptive analyses using mean, standard deviation, and Independent t -test. Results Managerial competence of male and female first-line nurse managers was not significantly different ( P = 0.555). Female nurse managers descriptively reported/received higher ranking in facilitating spiritual nursing care, managing self, staffing and professional development, utilizing informatics, and applying quality care improvement. Male nurse managers reported higher in leadership and financial management. Conclusions Female and male first-line nurse managers should be treated equally for leadership and managerial development.