Document Type
Report
Publication Date
Spring 2024
Date of Final Presentation
4-4-2024
Committee Chair
Rosanna Moreno, DNP, MBA, RN, CPPS, FACHE
Committee Member
Joe Greene, MPH
Coordinator/ Chair of DNP Program
April Howell, DNP, RN
Abstract/ Executive Summary
Purpose: To decrease inpatient nurse managers' burnout, stress, and compassion fatigue through attendance at a mindful, self-compassion intensive program.
Background/Significance: Nurse leaders and managers are indispensable pillars of the healthcare team, carrying the responsibility of shaping organizational success and ensuring quality patient care. Unfortunately, the current landscape of nursing leadership is clouded by sentiments of powerlessness, hopelessness, and guilt.
Description: Recognizing the practical challenges faced by nurse managers, a targeted intervention was implemented – a four-week, in-person mindfulness-based, self-compassion program. This initiative aimed to equip them with the tools to mitigate stress, burnout, and compassion fatigue. Led by a trained facilitator, the weekly two-hour sessions covered topics such as loving kindness, self-compassion, and common humanity.
Evaluation and Outcome: The outcomes were profound, with nurse managers exhibiting heightened engagement in self-care and mindfulness activities. 93.7% of eligible nurse managers enrolled in the program, and 80% completed the series. Assessments were conducted pre, post-program, 30 and 60-day, using the Perceived Stress Scale and the ProQOL 5 tools. The PSS score decreased by 11% post program and 23% at 30 days post program. Participants noted incorporation of mindfulness-based self-compassion interventions into daily routines and fostering a greater sense of connection to other leaders. Senior leadership received clear feedback on the positive impact these sessions had on the well-being of the nurse managers, highlighting the need for ongoing programs.
Conclusions: This program shows the pivotal role of self-compassion and mindfulness in manager well-being. Providing in-person sessions, thoughtfully scheduled during work hours and limited to nurse managers exclusively allowed for high engagement and participant’s recommendation for future programs. By equipping nurse leaders with tools to enhance their emotional well-being, the reverberations of resilient leadership are poised to foster healthier work environments, elevate team morale, and ultimately enhance the quality of patient care.
Recommended Citation
Wiederhold, Nancy, "A Pilot Project to Improve the Well-Being of Inpatient Nurse Managers at an Academic Medical Center Through a Mindfulness-Based Intervention" (2024). Doctor of Nursing Practice Projects. 61.
https://scholarworks.boisestate.edu/dnp/61