Authors

  1. McNulty, Denise Stage DNP, RN, MS-HSA, NPD-BC, NE-BC
  2. LaMonica-Way, Carol MSN, RN, RNC-OB
  3. Senneff, Jo-Anne MSN, RN, CCRN-K

Abstract

OBJECTIVE: This evidence-based practice project assessed the impact of integrating mindfulness training into an existing nurse residency program.

 

BACKGROUND: Stress and burnout are endemic in healthcare. The transition to practice is associated with stress and anxiety for newly graduated nurses. Evidence supports mindfulness-based interventions to mitigate stress and burnout and improve the workplace environment and patient outcomes.

 

METHODS: This project employed a pre/post design to measure burnout, stress, and mindfulness, comparing means and standard deviations between intervention and comparison nurse residency cohorts. Mindfulness training was integrated at 4 points within the 1st 6 months of the residency program.

 

RESULTS: The intervention cohort reported significantly less burnout and stress and more mindfulness at 6 months than the comparison group.

 

CONCLUSIONS: Mindfulness training can be feasibly integrated into an existing nurse residency program to decrease stress and burnout for new graduate nurses during the transition to practice.