# The Relational Playbook Nurse Leadership Development Program Using the Whistle Systems Employee Recognition Platform: Feasibility Mixed Methods Study

## TL;DR

This study tested a flexible leadership program for nurses using a mobile app, finding it acceptable and feasible for busy clinicians.

## Contribution

A novel approach to nurse leadership development using gamification and mobile technology for scalability and flexibility.

## Key findings

- The Whistle platform was deemed acceptable, appropriate, and feasible for delivering leadership content.
- Weekly nudges and microlearning content were valued for supporting personal growth and positive work attitudes.
- Engagement metrics and user feedback showed high satisfaction with the program's flexibility and delivery method.

## Abstract

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

This 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 application and mobile app.

A 1-year, single-team pilot was deployed using descriptive survey data and qualitative interview analysis. The Relational 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 postimplementation acceptability, appropriateness, and feasibility survey and interview. Descriptive statistics summarized engagement levels and trends, and qualitative data were analyzed using content analysis to identify recurring concepts. Quantitative and qualitative data were analyzed sequentially for comprehensive insights.

The section chief and 4 practicing cardiology nurse practitioners from a large academic medical center participated. The nurse practitioner section chief deemed the Whistle platform an acceptable, appropriate, and feasible technology for delivering the Relational Playbook content. They valued the weekly nudges, microlearning content, and flexibility of the web application and mobile app. The Relational Playbook content supported their personal growth and fostered positive shifts in attitudes toward work.

Delivering leadership development content through the Whistle platform is an acceptable approach to support the growth and well-being of busy nurse leaders. The small sample and absence of a comparison group limit generalizability.