Date Available

7-19-2020

Year of Publication

2020

Degree Name

Doctor of Nursing Practice

Committee Chair

Dr. Karen Stefaniak

Clinical Mentor

Dr. LeeAnne Walmsley

Committee Member

Dr. Connie Jennings

Abstract

Background: The purpose of this study was to evaluate if brief Mindfulness Based Stress Reduction (MBSR) sessions can improve nurse leader resilience and overall mindfulness.

Conceptual Framework: Two different conceptual frameworks, Jean Watson’s theory of caring and Albert Bandura’s theory of self-efficacy, were used to guide this project. Watson’s theory of caring is defined as healing of the mind, body, and spirit. This theory supports caring for oneself while caring for others. Bandura’s theory focuses on the belief that individuals can influence their own lives.

Methodology: This study employed a descriptive, pretest-posttest single site comparative design. Sixty-six nursing leaders from a large academic medical center were invited to participate. Baseline mindfulness and resiliency levels were assessed before the first MBSR session. After a second brief MBSR session and four months of individual daily practice, a post assessment was conducted to evaluate any changes in mindfulness and resiliency levels.

Results: A total of 34 participants completed the pre-survey, 24 completed the post survey, and 24 participants completed both pre and post. There was a statistical significance decrease found when comparing scores before and after the MBSR sessions among the participants who completed both pre and post surveys. This significant decrease could be attributed to the challenges encountered at the time of the post-survey. No difference in resiliency levels was noted post MBSR.

Discussion: Overall, the MBSR intervention sessions implemented in this study did not prove to be an effective method for improving nurse leader mindfulness practices or resiliency levels.

Conclusion: Despite good participation in the sessions and self-reported daily mindfulness practices, study results showed a statistically significant decrease from pre to post intervention on the mindfulness scoring. Further research is recommended, including potential qualitative effects of the intervention.

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