# The relationship between healthcare workers’ perceptions of epidemic management and manager support in a healthcare institution during the COVID-19 pandemic: scale development study

## TL;DR

This study developed a scale to assess healthcare workers' perceptions of epidemic management and found strong links between manager support and effective pandemic response.

## Contribution

The study introduces a valid and reliable scale for measuring epidemic management perceptions in healthcare settings.

## Key findings

- A strong positive relationship was found between manager support and healthcare workers' perception of epidemic management (r = 0.606).
- Manager support significantly influenced sub-dimensions like planning, organization, and control during the pandemic.
- Training health managers on supportive practices is crucial for effective epidemic management.

## Abstract

The aim of the study is to determine the relationship between epidemic management and manager support in healthcare institutions during the COVID-19 pandemic through the perception of healthcare workers. In the research, a scale development study was conducted for the “Epidemic Management Perception Scale”. This scale determines the epidemic management practices in health institutions through the perceptions of healthcare professionals during the COVID-19 pandemic.

The study is a methodological quantitative research. The data were collected from 365 healthcare workers using a systematic random sampling method. Exploratory factor analysis and confirmatory factor analysis were performed for the validity of the “Epidemic Management Perception” Scale. Cronbach’s Alpha value was used in the reliability analysis of the scale. The theoretical model was tested using the Structural Equation Model.

Epidemic Management Perception Scale was introduced to the literature as a valid and reliable assessment form. In the research, relationships between variables were modeled using structural equation modeling. As a result of the research, a high positive and significant relationship was found between healthcare workers’ perception of epidemic management and manager support in the healthcare institution during the COVID-19 pandemic (r = 0.606; R2: %36). In addition, a highly positive and significant relationship was found between healthcare workers’ perception of manager support and epidemic management sub-dimensions. (Planning R2: 30.8%, Organization R2: 26. 2%, Management R2: 21.9% and Control R2: 36.2%).

It was determined that manager support played an important role in healthcare workers’ positive response to epidemic management practices in healthcare institutions. The supportive attitude of managers in health institutions is the most important factor in overcoming the epidemic process. It is important to inform health managers about the importance of manager support and to organize the necessary training activities.