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Date Available
4-14-2026
Year of Publication
2026
Document Type
DNP Project
Degree Name
Doctor of Nursing Practice
College
Nursing
Department/School/Program
Nursing
Faculty
Dr. Karen Stefaniak
Committee Member
Dr. Lee Anne Walmsley
Faculty
Dr. Angela Grubbs
Abstract
Abstract
Background: Burnout among nurses and nursing students is a widespread and well‑documented problem that adversely affects professional performance and psychological well‑being. Resilience serves as a key protective factor, helping buffer the effects of academic stress and reducing burnout over time. Incorporating brief, low‑stakes cognitive challenges—such as a riddle—can help foster resilience.
Purpose: This project evaluated the impact of incorporating riddles into a wellness-focused course, Introduction to Mindfulness and Wellness, on resilience and well-being among undergraduate nursing students.
Methods: This project employed an Institutional Review Board approved pre-post survey design to measure the effect of an intervention focused on presenting and solving a riddle at the start of each class session on cognitive flexibility and engagement. Surveys were administered via Qualtrics at Week 0 and Week 15 of the semester that included the 25-item Connor-Davidson Resilience Scale (CD-RISC), a five-item well-being instrument, and one open-ended question. Participation was voluntary, confidential, and involved minimal risk.
Results: The sample included 31 students, primarily female (93.5%) and white/Caucasian (67.7%), with ages ranging from 20–21 years (77.4%), 22–23 years (16.1%), and older than 23 (6.5%). Participants represented semesters 2 (12.9%), 3 (41.9%), and 4 (45.2%) of the program. Findings suggest that this low-cost strategy may enhance resilience and well-being in nursing students, offering evidence-based approach to reduce burnout and foster adaptability in nursing education. Resilience scores increased significantly, (p < .001); well-being showed no significant change.
Conclusion: Results may inform curricular innovations that support mental health and professional readiness in future nurses.
Recommended Citation
Brown, Carolyn T., "Riddle Me Resilient: Investigating the Impact of Riddle Based Class Openings on Student Resilience and Well-being" (2026). DNP Projects. 512.
https://uknowledge.uky.edu/dnp_etds/512
