A brief mindfulness-based stress reduction intervention for nurses and nurse aides

Appl Nurs Res. 2006 May;19(2):105-9. doi: 10.1016/j.apnr.2005.08.002.

Abstract

Whereas the causes and negative consequences of stress among nurses are well known, less is known about effective ways to reduce or prevent this growing problem. Mindfulness-based stress reduction programs are proving to be effective in reducing stress and improving health in a variety of clinical populations. A smaller body of evidence suggests that these programs are also effective for nonclinical populations at risk for stress-related health problems. This study involved the development and evaluation of a brief 4-week mindfulness intervention for one such group-nurses and nurse aides. In comparison with 14 wait-list control participants, 16 participants in the mindfulness intervention experienced significant improvements in burnout symptoms, relaxation, and life satisfaction. The results of this pilot study, together with a natural fit between mindfulness philosophy and nursing practice theory, suggest that mindfulness training is a promising method for helping those in the nursing profession manage stress, even when provided in a brief format.

Publication types

  • Randomized Controlled Trial

MeSH terms

  • Adaptation, Psychological
  • Adult
  • Analysis of Variance
  • Attitude of Health Personnel*
  • Burnout, Professional / prevention & control*
  • Burnout, Professional / psychology
  • Feasibility Studies
  • Female
  • Health Education / organization & administration*
  • Health Promotion / organization & administration
  • Humans
  • Job Satisfaction
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Mind-Body Relations, Metaphysical
  • Nursing Assistants* / education
  • Nursing Assistants* / psychology
  • Nursing Staff, Hospital* / education
  • Nursing Staff, Hospital* / psychology
  • Occupational Health
  • Personal Satisfaction
  • Pilot Projects
  • Program Development
  • Program Evaluation
  • Relaxation Therapy / education*
  • Risk Factors
  • Surveys and Questionnaires