JMIR Publications

ABSTRACT

Background:

Leadership development programs in healthcare often fail due to their lack of adaptability to the schedules of busy clinicians. This study addresses the need for scalable, flexible programs tailored to nurse leaders.

Objective:

This case study evaluated the acceptability, appropriateness, and feasibility of the Relational Playbook, an evidence-based leadership development program developed in the Veterans Health Administration, delivered through the Whistle Systems employee recognition web and mobile applications.

Methods:

A one-year case study approach was deployed using descriptive survey data and qualitative interview analysis. The Playbook’s educational content and interventions were hosted on the Whistle platform, which integrates behavioral science and gamification strategies. Content was delivered weekly via app-based nudge notifications and email. Engagement metrics included activity completion rates. User experience data were collected through weekly reflection surveys (with Likert scale responses and open-text options), monthly check-ins, and a post-implementation acceptability, appropriateness, and feasibility survey and interview. Descriptive statistics summarized engagement levels and trends, while qualitative data were analyzed using content analysis to identify recurring concepts. Quantitative and qualitative data were analyzed sequentially for comprehensive insights.

Results:

Five cardiology nurse practitioners (NPs) from a large academic medical center, providing both inpatient and outpatient care, participated. The Whistle platform was deemed an acceptable, appropriate and feasible technology for delivering the Playbook content. Participants valued the weekly nudges, microlearning content, and flexibility of web and mobile applications. The Playbook content supported personal growth and fostered positive shifts in attitudes toward work.

Conclusions:

Delivering leadership development content through the Whistle platform is an acceptable approach to support the growth and well-being of busy nurse leaders.