Abstract
Using a unique multidisciplinary methodological solution, the results highlight the complex and adaptive nature of nurse leaders’ interpersonal communication competence. It provides a thorough description of nurse leaders’ interpersonal communication competence, supported by interpersonal communication competence theory. The results promote an understanding of the interpersonal communication competence required in nursing leadership. To retain competent nurses and ensure quality care, a comprehensive understanding of communication competence in nursing leadership is essential, highlighting the need for further research on this topic.