Perceptions of managerial practice among Spanish nurse managers: a cross-sectional study using the E-EPTGE instrument

AIM: To explore Spanish nurse managers' perceptions of their professional activities using the validated Spanish version of the Nursing Managers' Work Perception Scale (E-EPTGE). METHODS: A cross-sectional, descriptive-correlational study was conducted between December 2024 and April 2025. Using non-probabilistic snowball sampling, 140 nurse managers participated via an online survey promoted by national nursing organisations. The E-EPTGE (42 items, eight dimensions) measured the frequency of managerial activities on a 4-point Likert scale. Descriptive and non-parametric statistical analyses (Mann-Whitney, Kruskal-Wallis) were performed. RESULTS: The sample was predominantly female (81.4%), aged 41-50 (45.7%), with substantial nursing experience. The E-EPTGE showed excellent internal consistency (α = .961). Mean overall item score was 3.19, reflecting frequent engagement in managerial activities. Highest-rated dimensions included Professional, Ethical and Legal Practice (M = 3.54) and Planning and Organisation (M = 3.49). The lowest-rated was Political Intervention and Advisory (M = 2.70), suggesting reduced participation in institutional governance. Significant differences were found across age and experience groups (p < .05), indicating a positive correlation between maturity and perceived managerial competence. CONCLUSIONS: Spanish nurse managers' report strong involvement in ethical leadership and operational planning but show limited engagement in strategic roles. Enhancing leadership training and institutional inclusion is critical. The E-EPTGE demonstrates to be a robust tool for evaluating managerial competencies and informing evidence-based strategies for nursing leadership development.