The Effects of Mindfulness Meditation on Stress and Burnout in Nurses

Zen Den: A Novel Approach to Promote Well-Being in the Workplace

Purpose: In response to the COVID-19 pandemic, holistic nurses at an academic level 1 trauma center in Hawaii utilized a novel holistic approach to combat stress and anxiety symptoms while promoting nurse's well-being. This assessment aimed to determine whether a brief session incorporating Reiki and meditation could decrease nurses' perceived stress and anxiety while increasing perceived happiness and coping ability. Methods: Two Reiki-certified holistic nurses developed a mobile 10-minute individual well-being session called "Zen Den." In each session, the holistic nurse provided hands-on Reiki concurrent with a meditation streamed by a free online application. Pre and post-self-assessments were measured using a Likert scale. Findings: Participants (N = 92) showed an average decrease in perceived stress by 46% and anxiety by 45%, and an increase in feelings of happiness by 17% and perceived coping ability by 18%. Conclusion: This novel approach to promote well-being in the workplace can be achieved using existing resources such as Reiki-trained staff, a quiet space, and a 10-minute well-being session with guided meditation using a free online application.

Mindful self-care among oncology nurses in China: a latent profile analysis

BACKGROUND

Oncology nurses are considered the group with the highest risk for moral distress, compassion fatigue and burnout. Mindful self-care may help oncology nurses improve their well-being and solve psychological problems. However, the investigation and in-depth analysis of mindful self-care among oncology nurses in China is lacking.

OBJECTIVES

To identify heterogeneity groups of oncology nurses on mindful self-care ability and examine the sociodemographic correlation to these profiles.

DESIGN

Cross-sectional descriptive study.

PARTICIPANTS

The study was carried out among oncology nurses in two affiliated comprehensive hospitals and one affiliated oncology hospital. A total of 839 oncology nurses were enrolled in this survey.

METHODS

From January to May 2023, a cross-sectional study was carried out among oncology nurses using convenient sampling. The subjects were given the brief Mindful Self-Care Scale (B-MSCS) and the General Demographic Information Questionnaire. Latent profile analysis using the Mplus 7.4 program was used to separate oncology nurses' mindful self-care into a variety of subgroups. The SPSS 25.0 statistical program was used to analyze the data. One-way ANOVA and the chi-square test were performed to compare the score of B-MSCS in each class and the difference in sociodemographic characteristics among the subgroups. Multinomial logistic regression was used to examine the influence of the sociodemographic variables on each class.

RESULTS

The total score of the B-MSCS was 76.40 ± 13.19. The support structure dimension had the highest score, with an average mean value of 3.60, and physical care had the lowest score at 2.57. The findings of the latent profile analysis showed that respondents were divided into three classes, moderate mindful self-care(51.2%), low-low mindful relaxation(14.8%), and high-high mindfulness self-awareness(34.0%). Across scale scores and dimensions, three groups demonstrated statistically significant differences (p < 0.05). Univariate analysis revealed significant differences between the three profiles in terms of professional title, position, concern about self-care, interest in mindfulness, and experience with meditation (p < 0.05). Profile membership was predicted by 3 factors, namely, self-care status, interest in mindfulness, and experience with meditation.

CONCLUSION

The mindful self-care among oncology nurses can be categorized into three latent profiles: moderate mindful self-care, low-low mindful relaxation, and high-high mindfulness self-awareness. Multinomial logistic regression results indicated that whether oncology nurses concern about self-care, interest in mindfulness and have experience with meditation influenced different latent profiles. Nursing manager should develop targeted intervention based on the typological characteristics of the oncology nurses to improve their mindful self-care ability and mental health.

A Short Form for Measuring Anxiety in Nursing Education

Background and Purpose: Nursing education lacks an easily accessible, valid, and reliable short instrument to support researchers and instructors in quickly assessing student anxiety. The purpose of this research was to respond to this need by assessing the reliability and validity of a short-form anxiety instrument adapted from psychology which could measure state and trait anxiety. Methods: Using a one-group, repeated measures design, 51 sophomore level undergraduate nursing students had their state and trait anxiety levels measured at three time points over the course of a semester. Results: Results showed that the anxiety instrument was valid and reliable for use in nursing education with coefficient α ranging from .65 to .88. Conclusion: Future nurse researchers and educators should consider using the short-form anxiety instrument when a quick differentiation is needed to measure state and trait anxiety.

Exploring the concept and management strategies of caring stress among clinical nurses: a scoping review

Objective

The concept of caring stress and its specific management has received less attention than other dimensions of stress in nurses. Therefore, to clarify the concept of caring stress, a scoping review study was designed. This scoping review aimed to investigate the concept of caring stress among clinical nurses and examine the strategies used for its management.

Methods

This review employed a scoping review methodology to comprehensively map the essential concepts and attributes of the phenomenon by drawing on a wide range of sources. International databases including PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, Google Scholar, and Scientific Information Database (SID) were searched to gather relevant studies published until October 1, 2023. MESH terms included "caring stress", "care", "stress", "nurse", and "stress management" were used. Two reviewers independently collected data from full-text papers, ensuring that each paper underwent assessment by at least two reviewers.

Results

Out of 104,094 articles initially searched, 22 articles were included in this study. High workloads, transmitting the infection, stressful thoughts, stressful emotions, and stressful communications were the significant concepts and factors of caring stress among nurses. Also, rest breaks during patient care shifts, playing music in the ward, and denial of critical situations were examples of positive and negative coping and management ways to reduce caring stress.

Conclusion

Effective stress management strategies can lead to better patient care and safety. Stressed nurses are more likely to make errors or become less vigilant in their duties, impacting patient outcomes. By addressing caring stress, clinical practice can prioritize patient well-being. Further research is required to delve deeper into this critical issue concerning nurses in the future.

Associations between parental autonomy support and depressive symptoms among Chinese college students: the chain-mediating effects of mindfulness and self-esteem

Introduction

Despite extensive research on contextual factors will relieve college students' depressive symptoms, significant gaps remain in understanding the underlying mechanisms of this relationship, particularly through individual strength factors such as mindfulness and self-esteem. Based on self-determination theory, we explore the association between parental autonomy support and depressive symptoms among Chinese college students and whether mindfulness and self-esteem serve as mediators.

Methods

A total of 1,182 Chinese college students aged 16 to 27 years (Mage = 20.33, SD = 1.63; female = 55.7%) participated in this research. Questionnaires pertaining to parental autonomy support, mindfulness, self-esteem, and depressive symptoms were administered.

Results

The results revealed that depressive symptoms were negatively correlated with both paternal and maternal autonomy support, with mindfulness and self-esteem acting as chain-mediators. Specifically, mindfulness and self-esteem were positively impacted by parental autonomy support, whereas depressive symptoms were negatively impacted by mindfulness and self-esteem. Furthermore, paternal and maternal autonomy support significantly impacted depressive symptoms via both direct and indirect pathways. Indirect effects included three paths: mediation through mindfulness, mediation through self-esteem, and mediation through the mindfulness and self-esteem chain.

Discussion

The study highlights the fundamental mechanisms that account for the association between Chinese college students' parental autonomy support and depressive symptoms, these insights can be used to prevent and manage mental health problems among Chinese college students. For example, parents' autonomy support can directly reduce depressive symptoms, but we can also indirectly promote college students' mental health by emphasizing the mediation role of students' mindfulness and self-esteem.

Reduce stress and the risk of burnout by using yoga techniques. Pilot study

Introduction

This article examines the effectiveness of yoga in managing stress, with a particular focus on work-related stress. Yoga combines physical postures, breath control, and meditation, and has gained recognition for its potential to relieve stress.

Purpose

This study aimed to investigate the motivating factors behind individuals adopting yoga exercises and to assess the effects of regular yoga practice, with a particular focus on age-related differences. Additionally, we aimed to compare participants' expectations with the actual results of their yoga practice.

Methods

To achieve this, we conducted a comprehensive survey using an online form, which was completed by 520 yoga practitioners. Participants were surveyed about their motivation, the effects they experienced, and the type of yoga they practiced.

Results

The results showed that the most common motivation for individuals practicing yoga was stress reduction. Additionally, the analysis of the effects of regular yoga practice demonstrated a significant reduction in stress levels, with experienced practitioners reporting lower stress levels compared to beginners. In conclusion, the study suggests that regular yoga practice can be an effective way to reduce stress levels.

Conclusion

Dynamic forms of yoga, which incorporate fluid movements and synchronized breathing techniques, are highly effective approaches to stress management and relief. These findings highlight the value of yoga as a tool for individuals of all ages seeking stress relief and overall well-being. Another advantage of yoga practice is its affordability and lack of negative side effects.

The use of mHealth apps to improve hospital nurses' mental health and well-being: A systematic review

BACKGROUND

Nursing well-being has become a heightened focus since the COVID-19 pandemic. Nurses are leaving the profession early in their careers or retiring sooner than expected. Those who remain in the workforce report higher levels of burnout, anxiety, depression, and exhaustion. There is concern that there may be a shortage of at least half a million nurses by 2030.

AIMS

This systematic review aimed to investigate the evidence of using a mental health promotion mHealth app to improve the mental health of hospital nurses.

METHODS

A systematic search was conducted in CINAHL Plus with Full Text, MEDLINE with Full Text, Professional Development Collection, Psychology and Behavioral Sciences Collection, Sociological Collection, PsycInfo, Embase, and PubMed with search dates of January 2012-November 15, 2022. The mHealth intervention needed to be asynchronously delivered through a smartphone with hospital nurse participants to be included in this review.

RESULTS

Of the 157 articles screened for this review, six were included. Primary outcome variables were anxiety, burnout, coping, depression, self-efficacy, stress, well-being, and work engagement. Intervention types included mindfulness-based interventions (MBIs), cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), stress inoculation therapy (SIT), psychoeducation, and stress management. Anxiety, depression, well-being, and burnout improved with MBIs; depression improved with CBT; and anxiety and active coping improved with SIT.

LINKING EVIDENCE TO ACTION

This review demonstrated promising findings in using mHealth apps to improve the mental health of hospital nurses. However, more randomized controlled trials with larger sample sizes may reveal which type of mHealth app and how much exposure to the intervention is more effective in improving specific mental health symptoms. Longitudinal follow-up is also recommended to study sustainability of the mental health improvements.

How Does Mindfulness Affect Registered Nurses Practicing in Acute Care Settings? A Study of the Lived Experiences of Nurses After Participating in a Mindfulness Program

BACKGROUND

Psychological well-being of nurses is necessary to protect the overall care of themselves, as well as their patients. This is especially concerning given the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic. There are several research studies on mindfulness for RNs and its impact on psychological health and well-being. There is limited research on how nurses may use mindfulness during patient care.

AIM

The purpose of this study was to explore the effects of mindfulness education and practice on helping RNs to develop self-care skills and to apply mindfulness in the clinical setting.

METHOD

This was an exploratory mixed method design including quantitative (pilot study) and qualitative methods. Upon completion of a 4-week course on mindfulness practices, focus groups were held with the seven participants who completed the program. Open-ended, semi-structured interviews were held 1 week and then 3 months post-intervention. A constant comparative method and thematic analysis were utilized to analyze the data.

RESULTS

Four themes were identified; (1) using mindfulness to calm down one's emotional response in the clinical setting; (2) awareness; (3) loving yourself; and (4) self-care. Nurses reported increased awareness and were able to use the technique of mindfulness practice during patient care.

CONCLUSION

The findings of this study validate the benefits of mindfulness for self-care. Nurses were able to utilize mindfulness while caring for patients in different settings and during difficult patient situations, including in Behavioral Health. Further research is needed longitudinally, to explore how mindfulness can be practiced and utilized to improve outcomes in patient care.

Stress as a mediator between abusive supervision and clinical nurses' work outcomes

AIMS

This study aimed to test whether stress could mediate the association between abusive supervision and nurses' work engagement, absenteeism, and turnover intention.

BACKGROUND

Abusive supervision has been attributed to suboptimal work performance and reduced productivity among employees in different sectors. While existing nursing literature links abusive supervision to a wide range of work-related outcomes in the nursing workforce, little is known regarding the mechanism underlying this relationship.

DESIGN

Data for this descriptive study were collected from 770 direct-care nurses from seven acute care hospitals in the Philippines, utilizing five standardized scales.

RESULTS

Abusive supervision had direct positive effects on absenteeism (β = .189, p < .001) and intent to leave (β = .138, p < .001) and a direct negative effect on job engagement (β = -.131, p < .001). The relationships between abusive supervision and absenteeism (β = .175, p < .001), intent to leave (β = .131, p < .001), and work engagement (β = -.122, p < .001) were partially mediated by stress.

CONCLUSIONS

Stress mediated the relationship between abusive supervision and nurses' work outcomes, including turnover intention, absenteeism, and work disengagement.

IMPLICATIONS FOR NURSING AND HEALTH POLICY

The evident connection between abusive supervision, stress, and work-related outcomes underscores the importance of focusing on enhancing managerial supervisory styles as a potential organizational strategy to enhance staff retention and well-being.

Randomized crossover clinical trial of a Mindfulness-based intervention for nurse leaders: A pilot study

OBJECTIVE

to analyze the effects of a Mindfulness-based intervention on nurse leaders' emotional intelligence and resilience.

METHOD

a pilot study of a randomized crossover clinical trial. The sample (n=32) was randomized into Group A (n=18) and Group B (n=14) and evaluated at the pre-test, post-test and follow-up moments. The outcomes were assessed using the Emotional Intelligence Measure, the Connor-Davidson Resilience Questionnaire and the Five Facet Mindfulness Questionnaire, and analyzed using Generalized Linear Mixed Models.

RESULTS

a total of 32 nurses with a mean age of 42.6 years old were evaluated. The analyses showed significant interactions between the effects of the group x moment factors on the Self-motivation (p=0.005), Sociability (p<0.001), Self-control (p=0.013), and Total (p=0.002) emotional intelligence skill scores; as well as on the Observe (p=0.042), Describe (p=0.008), Non-judgment (p<0.001), Act with awareness (p=0.004) and Total (p<0.001) mindfulness facets. Post-test: there was a statistically significant increase in the Sociability (p=0.009) and Self-control (p=0.015) emotional intelligence skills; as well as in the Non-judgment (p=0.022) and Total (p=0.002) mindfulness facets. Follow-up: a significant increase was observed in the Non-judgment (p=0.024) and Total (p=0.026) mindfulness facets. The "resilience" variable did not present statistical significance in the "group x moment" factor, both in the post-test and during follow-up.

CONCLUSION

the Mindfulness-based intervention used proved to be effective in increasing nurse leaders' emotional intelligence and dispositional mindfulness skills. Brazilian Registry of Clinical Trials (RBR-3c62gy), registered on March 4 th , 2020, updated on September 16 th , 2022.

BACKGROUND

(1) Unpublished study of a Mindfulness-based intervention with nurse leaders.

BACKGROUND

(2) Positive effect on the participants' emotional intelligence and mindfulness.

BACKGROUND

(3) Advances in knowledge about emotional intelligence and leadership resilience.

BACKGROUND

(4) It encourages the implementation of sensitive and innovative health strategies.

The effect of a mindfulness intervention (MI) on sleep disturbance (SD) among nurses

Sleep disturbance (SD) makes it difficult for nurses in intensive care units (ICUs) to perform activities that require focused and continual concentration, which raises the risk of medical errors, health issues, loss of sleep, and patient care mistakes. The mindfulness intervention (MI) was created to give participants the capacity to approach their own emotions with non-judgmental awareness and to become more conscious of their thoughts and feelings, and it reduced psychological symptoms. This study examined the effect of MI on SD among nurses. A randomized control trail (RCT) was conducted and recruited 100 nurses from intensive care and medical-surgical units from three hospitals located at the northern and middle regions of Jordan. Bivariate analysis including independent T-test and multiple linear regressions were used to study the differences between the interventional group (MI) and the comparison group (watching mindfulness videos) in terms of the impact on the SD. Nurses reported significant and high levels of SD. MI significantly reduced the level of SD and improved sleep quality among nurses. MI should be integrated into nursing competences to combat the negative impacts of poor sleep quality on nurses and organizational-sensitive outcomes.

Effects of psychological intervention on negative emotions and psychological resilience in breast cancer patients after radical mastectomy

Breast cancer (BC)is the most common malignant tumor in women, and the treatment process not only results in physical pain but also significant psychological distress in patients. Psychological intervention (PI) has been recognized as an important approach in treating postoperative psychological disorders in BC patients. It has been proven that PI has a significant therapeutic effect on post-operative psychological disorders, improving patients' negative emotions, enhancing their psychological resilience, and effectively enhancing their quality of life and treatment compliance.

Development and effects of a non-face-to-face forest therapy program for nurses during the COVID-19 pandemic

AIM

In this study, we developed a non-face-to-face forest therapy program using videos and applied it to nurses working in hospitals during the prolonged COVID-19 situation to confirm the effect on their mental health.

METHOD

This study was a randomized control group pretest-posttest, and 27 clinical nurses in the experimental group and 28 clinical nurses in the control group participated. The program developed forest therapy videos and three city videos each. The experimental group watched the forest therapy video and the control group watched the city video and stress and happiness were measured through pre-test and post-test.

RESULTS

The stress level of clinical nurses who applied the non-face-to-face forest therapy program had a significant reduction effect compared to the control group on day 2 (t = -2.239 P = .026) and day 3 (t = -3.188, P = .003). On the other hand, there was no significant effect in happiness in both groups. In addition, repeated measures analysis of variance statistical analysis confirmed that the stress level of the experimental group significantly decreased over time (F = 10.578, P < .001).

CONCLUSION

The non-face-to-face forest therapy program is significant in that it had a positive effect on relieving stress by conducting a randomized controlled study targeting clinical nurses working in various hospitals.

Influence of standardized nursing intervention combined with mindfulness stress reduction training on the curative effect in patients with acute pancreatitis

BACKGROUND

Acute pancreatitis (AP) is a common inflammatory disease of the pancreas with high mortality rates. It is of great significance to take scientific intervention measures for patients with AP in time.

AIM

To explore the effect of standardized nursing combined with mindfulness stress reduction training on the curative effect, negative emotion, and quality of life in patients with acute pancreatitis.

METHODS

A total of 80 patients with acute pancreatitis admitted to The First People's Hospital of Jiangxia District Hospital from May 2021 to May 2023 were randomly divided into control group and observation group (n = 40). Patients in control group were given the standardized nursing intervention, and the observation group were given standardized nursing plus mindfulness stress reduction training intervention. The time of clinical symptom disappeared or improved, complication occurrence rate, emotional state, and quality of life score of the two groups were observed and compared.

RESULTS

In comparison with the control group, the bowel sound recovery time, ventosity and abdominal pain improvement time, and venting and cacation time in observation group were shorter, and the total incidence rate of complications was reduced, showing statistically significant difference (P < 0.05). The scores of anxiety and depression in observation group were lower than those in control group (P < 0.05). Serum levels of tumour necrosis factor alpha, interleukin (IL)-6, IL-1β and IL-8 in observation group were lower than those in control group (P < 0.05). The scores of life quality in physiology, psychology, environment and social relations in observation group were higher than those in control group, and the differences were statistically significant (P < 0.05).

CONCLUSION

The application of standardized nursing intervention combined with mindfulness stress reduction training in patients with acute pancreatitis has a definite effect, which can help to ameliorate the clinical symptoms, anxiety and depression of patients, reduce the incidence rate of complications, and improve the prognosis of patients.

Effects of aromatherapy on sore throat, nasal symptoms and sleep quality in adults infected with COVID-19: A randomized controlled trial

Background

Patients with coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) usually complain of fever, cough, and sore throat. This study examined the effects of aromatherapy on sore throat, nasal symptoms, stress, fatigue, and sleep quality by administering it to adults with post-COVID-19 condition.

Methods

This study was conducted in a randomised controlled design. Its target population were adults who were released from COVID-19 quarantine treatment within 45 days from infection onset and capable of performing daily activities after isolation treatment. The participants were randomised into aromatherapy group (AG) and control group (CG). To test experimental treatment effects, the levels of sore throat, nasal symptoms, stress, fatigue and sleep quality were measured at the baseline (pre-test) and after the trial (post-test), using the numerical rating scale for sore throat, stress and fatigue, the Total Nasal Symptoms Score for nasal symptoms, and the Korean Version of Modified Leeds Sleep Evaluation Questionnaire for quality of sleep.

Results

After experimental treatment, there was a significant difference in sore throat in AG compared to CG on the 3rd day (t=-2.022 p=0.048) and 4th day (t=-2.450, p=0.017) of treatment. There was also a significant difference in fatigue between AG and CG on the 2nd day(t=-2.748, p=0.008), 3rd day (t=-2.948, p=0.005) and 4th day (t=-3.084, p=0.003) of treatment. There was no significant difference in TNSS, stress, and sleep quality between the two groups after the experimental treatment.

Conclusion

Inhaling aroma essential oils reduced sore throat and fatigue in adults with post-COVID-19 condition, demonstrating the feasibility of aromatherapy as an effective treatment.

Trial registration

The study was registered with Clinical Research Information Service (KCT0008029).

Mindfulness-Based Interventions for End-of-Life Professionals

In a recently published paper in this journal, Covington et al explored the potential advantages of mindfulness-based interventions (MBIs) for healthcare staff burnout and associated problems. In the demanding and emotionally charged field of end-of-life (EOL) care, healthcare professionals play a pivotal role in supporting patients and their families during their most vulnerable moments. However, as a recent systematic review reveals, the empirical research on MBIs in the context of EOL care is still in its nascent stages. This correspondence contributes to the research gap on mental health and self-care of EOL for professionals.

Guided self-help mindfulness-based intervention for increasing psychological resilience and reducing job burnout in psychiatric nurses: A randomized controlled trial

AIMS

The present study aimed to explore the effects of a guided self-help mindfulness intervention on psychological resilience and job burnout among psychiatric nurses.

BACKGROUND

Psychiatric nurses work in challenging and potentially high stress settings. Mindfulness interventions can improve psychological resilience and reduce job burnout of nurses. However, face-to-face delivery of mindfulness interventions may be inconvenient for individuals. Guided self-help interventions may be more accessible.

METHODS

This randomized controlled trial was conducted from January to August 2022. One hundred and eighteen psychiatric nurses were randomized into the intervention and control groups. The individuals in the intervention group received an 8-week guided self-help mindfulness intervention, while the individuals in the control group received a psycho-educational brochure. The Five Facet Mindfulness Questionnaire, the Connor-Davidson Resilience Scale and the Maslach Burnout Inventory-Human Services Survey were used to evaluate the levels of mindfulness, psychological resilience and job burnout, respectively.

RESULTS

After an 8-week intervention, compared with the control group, the levels of mindfulness and psychological resilience were higher, while the level of job burnout was lower in the intervention group.

CONCLUSIONS

The guided self-help mindfulness intervention can improve psychological resilience and reduce job burnout among psychiatric nurses.

Mindful, mindless, or misunderstood? A critical perspective of the mindfulness concept

Mindfulness is everywhere, but the term is often used mindlessly. This article discusses the growth of mindfulness-based interventions in many countries over the past fifty years and, more recently, the emergence of the idea of 'McMindfulness', with particular emphasis on the concept of 'spiritual bypassing'. Critical discourse is a valuable resource in any discipline. Proportionate, mindful incorporation of reasoned critiques strengthens mindfulness, rather than undermining it. Misunderstandings and misinterpretations of mindfulness highlight a need to counter the notions that mindfulness involves avoiding difficult issues in our lives or simply accepting social problems that need to be addressed. The opposite is true: mindfulness of reality inevitably generates insights about change. Before we change the world, we need to see it. Mindfulness practice is opting in, not opting out.

Self-Care Skills to Prevent Burnout: A Pilot Study Embedding Mindfulness in an Undergraduate Nursing Course

Background Burnout negatively affects nurses and increases nursing turnover. Many student nurses experience burnout throughout their academic program, negatively affecting student success and patient care. Objectives To explore effects of mindfulness education / self-care skills training in undergraduate nursing students on stress and self-care. Design A four-week pilot with four-week follow-up. Setting In-person mindfulness sessions were offered to first-year nursing students. Participants 67 students enrolled in a nursing skills course. Methods Four in-person mindfulness educational sessions were provided with a 4-week follow-up. Outcomes were stress and self-care, measured by the Perceived Stress Scale and Mindful Self-Care Scale at pre-, post-, and follow-up. Results 58 (86.6%) completed pilot; mean age = 22.8 (5.75), majority females (84%) and Caucasian (79%). Students practicing one or more mindfulness techniques at least 8 times outside class increased self-care 9.5% pre- to post-intervention (p = .01), although not sustained at follow-up. Stress did not change significantly in either direction (p = .94), potentially mediating the stress of starting clinical immediately following the intervention. Conclusions Mindfulness education increased self-care in first-year nursing students who practiced mindfulness outside class. Recommendations include further research and integration of mindfulness into courses to assess benefits and coping skills for future nurses.

Interventions to reduce burnout among clinical nurses: systematic review and meta-analysis

Sporadic evidence exists for burnout interventions in terms of types, dosage, duration, and assessment of burnout among clinical nurses. This study aimed to evaluate burnout interventions for clinical nurses. Seven English databases and two Korean databases were searched to retrieve intervention studies on burnout and its dimensions between 2011 and 2020.check Thirty articles were included in the systematic review, 24 of them for meta-analysis. Face-to-face mindfulness group intervention was the most common intervention approach. When burnout was measured as a single concept, interventions were found to alleviate burnout when measured by the ProQoL (n = 8, standardized mean difference [SMD] = - 0.654, confidence interval [CI] =  - 1.584, 0.277, p < 0.01, I2 = 94.8%) and the MBI (n = 5, SMD = - 0.707, CI = - 1.829, 0.414, p < 0.01, I2 = 87.5%). The meta-analysis of 11 articles that viewed burnout as three dimensions revealed that interventions could reduce emotional exhaustion (SMD = - 0.752, CI = - 1.044, - 0.460, p < 0.01, I2 = 68.3%) and depersonalization (SMD = - 0.822, CI = - 1.088, - 0.557, p < 0.01, I2 = 60.0%) but could not improve low personal accomplishment. Clinical nurses' burnout can be alleviated through interventions. Evidence supported reducing emotional exhaustion and depersonalization but did not support low personal accomplishment.

Effect of mindfulness-based mind-body therapies in patients with non-specific low back pain-A network meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials

Background/objectives

Although mindfulness-based mind-body therapy (MBMBT) is an effective non-surgical treatment for patients with non-specific low back pain (NLBP), the best MBMBT mode of treatment for NLBP patients has not been identified. Therefore, a network meta-analysis (NMA) was conducted to compare the effects of different MBMBTs in the treatment of NLBP patients.

Methods

PubMed, EMBASE, Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, and Web of Science databases were searched for randomized controlled trials (RCTs) applying MBMBT for the treatment of NLBP patients, with all of the searches ranging from the time of database creation to January 2023. After 2 researchers independently screened the literature, extracted information, and evaluated the risks of biases in the included studies, the data were analyzed by using Stata 16.0 software.

Results

A total of 46 RCTs were included, including 3,886 NLBP patients and 9 MBMBT (Yoga, Ayurvedic Massage, Pilates, Craniosacral Therapy, Meditation, Meditation + Yoga, Qigong, Tai Chi, and Dance). The results of the NMA showed that Craniosacral Therapy [surface under the cumulative ranking (SUCRA): 99.2 and 99.5%] ranked the highest in terms of improving pain and disability, followed by Other Manipulations (SUCRA: 80.6 and 90.8%) and Pilates (SUCRA: 54.5 and 71.2%). In terms of improving physical health, Craniosacral Therapy (SUCRA: 100%) ranked the highest, followed by Pilates (SUCRA: 72.3%) and Meditation (SUCRA: 55.9%). In terms of improving mental health, Craniosacral Therapy (SUCRA: 100%) ranked the highest, followed by Meditation (SUCRA: 70.7%) and Pilates (SUCRA: 63.2%). However, in terms of improving pain, physical health, and mental health, Usual Care (SUCRA: 7.0, 14.2, and 11.8%, respectively) ranked lowest. Moreover, in terms of improving disability, Dance (SUCRA: 11.3%) ranked lowest.

Conclusion

This NMA shows that Craniosacral Therapy may be the most effective MBMBT in treating NLBP patients and deserves to be promoted for clinical use.

Systematic review registration

https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/PROSPERO/, PROSPERO [CRD42023389369].

Effect of mindfulness-based stress reduction in patients with acute myocardial infarction after successful primary percutaneous coronary intervention: a retrospective study

OBJECTIVE

This study aimed to examine the effects of mindfulness-based stress reduction (MBSR) in patients with acute myocardial infarction (AMI) after primary percutaneous coronary intervention (PPCI).

METHODS

A retrospective study was conducted with data collected from AMI patients who underwent successful PPCI. The study included 61 cases that received 8-week MBSR intervention (MBSR group) and 61 cases that received weekly health education (control group) over the same period. Outcome measures, including hemodynamic parameters, psychosocial characteristics [Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS), Perceived Stress Scale (PSS), Perceived Social Support Scale (PSSS)], health-related quality of life [HRQoL, 7-item Seattle Angina Questionnaire (SAQ-7)], and major adverse cardiovascular events (MACE), were assessed at baseline (T1), post-intervention (T2), 1 month after the post-intervention (T3) and 3 months after the post-intervention (T4).

RESULTS

Compared to the control group, the MBSR group showed improvements in blood pressure, specifically in systolic blood pressure (SBP) at T4, and diastolic blood pressure (DBP) at T3 and T4, and mean arterial blood pressure (MABP) at T3 and T4. Additionally, the MBSR group had lower scores of anxiety and perceived stress (HADS, PSS) and higher scores of perceived social support (PSSS) after the intervention. Furthermore, the MBSR group had higher scores on the SAQ-7 at all measurement points. The control group had a significantly higher total MACE rate compared to the MBSR group (26.23% vs. 9.84%).

CONCLUSIONS

This study provides support for the potential benefits of MBSR as an adjunctive treatment for AMI patients undergoing PPCI.

Comparison of two brief mindfulness interventions for anxiety, stress and burnout in mental health professionals: a randomised crossover trial

Background

Anxiety, stress and burnout are a growing reality among mental health professionals, impacting negatively on them and their clients. Mindfulness-based interventions (MBIs) have demonstrated effectiveness in mitigating these sufferings. Nevertheless, there is a lack of knowledge on the impact of MBIs in Cuba.

Objectives

To compare the effectiveness of two brief mindfulness-based interventions for reducing anxiety, work stress and burnout.

Methods

A total of 104 mental health professionals from Havana (Cuba) participated in a randomised crossover trial. Group A received first an intervention involving body-centred practices (body scan and Hatha yoga) and a second intervention involving mind-centred practices (focused attention and open monitoring meditation). Group B received the same interventions but in reverse order. Four measures (anxiety, stress, burnout syndrome, and antecedents of burnout) were measured at baseline, posttest1, posttest2, and 6-months follow-up.

Results

After the first intervention, there was a between-group difference for burnout syndrome, but the ES was similar for both groups. After the second intervention (implementing both practises), groups showed the largest effect sizes, and there was a between-group difference for antecedents of burnout. Results were partially maintained at 6-month follow-up.

Conclusion

These results suggest that mind-centred practises can be as effective as body-centred practises for stress, anxiety and burnout reduction. The combination of both types of practises could be the most effective way of teaching mindfulness. About the sequence of implementation, teaching mind-centred practises first and then body-centred practises could be most effective for reducing antecedents of burnout.Clinical Trial Registration: www.clinicaltrials.gov NCT03296254.

American Academy of Nursing Expert Panel Consensus Statement on leveraging equity in policy to improve recognition and treatment of mental health, substance use disorders, and nurse suicide

Rates of nurse mental health and substance use disorders are high. Heightened by the COVID-19 pandemic, nurses are challenged to care for patients in ways that often jeopardize their own health and increase risks for their families. These trends exacerbate the epidemic of suicide in nursing underscored by several professional organization clarion calls to nurses' risk. Principles of health equity and trauma-informed care dictate urgent action. The purpose of this paper is to establish consensus among clinical and policy leaders from Expert Panels of the American Academy of Nursing about actions to address risks to mental health and factors contributing to nurse suicide. Recommendations for mitigating barriers drew from the CDC's 2022 Suicide Prevention Resource for Action strategies to guide the nursing community to inform policy, education, research, and clinical practice with the goals of greater health promotion, risk reduction, and sustainment of nurses' health and well-being are provided.

Interventions to Reduce Stress and Burnout among Teachers: A Scoping Review

Background: Teaching is recognized as a highly challenging profession. Experience of chronic stress is a risk factor for poor mental and physical well-being, and burnout. There is limited knowledge regarding optimal interventions to address stress and burnout among teachers. Objective: To undertake a scoping review of the literature in the last five years to determine various psychological interventions to address stress and burnout among teachers. Method: The PRISMA-ScR (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses extension for Scoping Reviews was followed. Relevant search terms were used to determine different interventions adopted to reduce teachers' stress and burnout. Articles published between 2018 and 2022 were identified using five bibliographic databases. Relevant articles were extracted, reviewed, collated, and thematically analyzed, and findings s were summarized. Results: Forty studies conducted in Asia, North America, Oceania, Europe, and Africa, met the inclusion criteria. Sixteen kinds of burnout and stress-reduction interventions were identified. The most popularly studied intervention were Mindfulness-Based Interventions alone or in combination with yoga or Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), followed by Rational Emotive Behavioral Therapy (REBT). Mindfulness-Based Interventions led to decreased overall Teacher Stress Inventory (TSI) and emotional exhaustion subscale scores. REBT, primarily used with special education teachers, especially in Africa, has also shown positive results. Other interventions reporting positive outcomes include Inquiry-Based Stress Reduction (IBSR), the Stress Management and Resiliency Training Program (SMART), Cyclic Meditation, Group Sandplay, Progressive Muscle Relaxation, Autogenic Training, Sport-Based Physical Activity, Emotional Intelligence Ability Models and Christian Prayer and Prayer-Reflection. Conclusions: Stress and burnout can have a negative impact on teachers and, very often, on the students they teach. Implementing suitable school-based interventions is necessary to improve teachers' stress-coping ability, reduce the likelihood of burnout and improve general well-being. Policymakers, governments, school boards and administrators should prioritize the implementation of school-based awareness and intervention programs.

Psychosocial Work Stress and Occupational Stressors in Emergency Medical Services

Emergency medical service (EMS) professionals often experience work stress, which escalated during COVID-19. High job demand in the EMS profession may lead to progressive decline in physical and mental health. We investigated the prevalence of psychosocial job stress in the three levels of EMS: basic, advanced, and paramedic, before and during the COVID-19 pandemic. EMS professionals (n = 36) were recruited from EMS agencies following the Institutional Review Board approval. Participants took surveys on demographics, personal characteristics, chronic diseases, and work schedules. Job stress indicators, namely the effort–reward ratio (ERR) and overcommitment (OC), were evaluated from survey questionnaires using the effort–reward imbalance model. Associations of job stress indicators with age, sex, body mass index, and working conditions were measured by logistic regression. Psychosocial work stress was prevalent with effort reward ratio > 1 in 83% of participants and overcommitment scores > 13 in 89% of participants. Age, body mass index, and work hours showed strong associations with ERR and OC scores. The investigation findings suggested that a psychosocial work environment is prevalent among EMS, as revealed by high ERR, OC, and their correlation with sleep apnea in rotating shift employees. Appropriate interventions may be helpful in reducing psychosocial work stress in EMS professionals.

A Pilot Study to Assess the Effect of Coaching on Emergency Nurses' Stress Management

(1) Background: Emergency nurses are more exposed to a wider range of stressors, resulting in higher levels of burnout, reducing the quality of nursing care, and decreasing job satisfaction compared with other peers in other nursing departments. The objective of the current pilot research is to evaluate the efficiency of a transtheoretical coaching model on emergency nurses' occupational stress management through a coaching intervention. (2) Materials and Methods: An interview, Karasek's stress questionnaire, the Maslach Burnout Inventory (MBI), an observation grid, and a one-group Pre-test-Post-test questionnaire was carried out to evaluate the changes in emergency nurses' knowledge and their ability to manage stress before and after attending the coaching intervention. A total of seven emergency room nurses at the proximity public hospital of the Settat area in Morocco have taken part in this study. (3) Results: The results have shown that all emergency nurses were subject to the job strain and iso-strain; four nurses were in moderate burnout, only one nurse was found in high burnout, and two were in low burnout. There was a significant difference between mean Pre- and Post-test scores (p = 0.016). Nurses' mean score has improved by 2.86 points after attending the four sessions coaching experience, passing from 3.71 in the Pre-test to 6.57 in the Post-test. (4) Conclusions: The coaching intervention through a transtheoretical coaching model could potentially be an efficient strategy for enhancing the nurses' knowledge and skills in stress management.

Journey Mapping Healthcare Worker Experience With Heart Rhythm Meditation

BACKGROUND

Levels of stress and burnout continue to rise amongst healthcare workers. In addition to systemic and institution-level changes to healthcare practice environments, well-being interventions, resources, and support to assist healthcare providers are necessary. Meditation practices like Heart Rhythm Meditation (HRM) may provide benefits to healthcare workers, but healthcare worker experiences with HRM are not well understood.

OBJECTIVE

To explore healthcare worker experiences with HRM using a journey mapping approach.

METHODS

An exploratory cross-sectional online survey was administered between May and July of 2020 to a purposeful sample of 25 healthcare workers currently practicing HRM. Surveys consisted of 5 open-ended and 36 multiple-choice items mapped to five journey mapping domains: Discover, Search, Assess, Decide, Assist. Descriptive statistics for survey items were generated in addition to a visual representation of a Persona and associated journey map for HRM. Content analysis was performed on open-ended responses using a general inductive approach to code responses and identify representative quotes.

RESULTS

Twenty surveys were completed for a response rate of 80%. The majority of respondents identified as women (n = 14). From the journey mapping output, the overall emotional experience score was an 8.2/10, suggesting respondents had positive experiences with HRM. Open-ended comments suggest that HRM provides important benefits to the personal and professional lives of healthcare workers. A small number of participants reported challenges like feeling difficult emotions during HRM practice.

CONCLUSION

Mapping the healthcare worker journey with HRM identified generally positive experiences with personal and professional benefits. While experiences were largely positive, HRM elicited difficult emotions from some individuals, suggesting that appropriate resources and support are required when considering HRM and other meditation forms.

Reducing Staff Turnover and Clinician Burnout With a Structured Support Group During the COVID-19 Pandemic

Retention and burnout have always been a challenge for nurse leaders, but the pandemic brought these concerns to a whole new level. And now the Great Resignation is affecting health care. So how can nurse leaders at hospitals and health care systems create a supportive environment for staff during a public health emergency? Structured support groups are a viable option for emphasizing self-care and wellness. We explain why we decided to form a structured support group for our intensive care unit nurses and illustrate the results from our clinical research team. In addition, we share feedback we received from participating nurses and offer advice on forming a structured support group in acute care settings. This strategy resulted in a change in the participant's behaviors after attending the structured emotional support group. This finding aligns with the literature, which supports strategies to protect nurses' mental well-being and to take preventive measures in critical situations. Using this as a foundation, a structured emotional support group can change nurse engagement and involvement in their process and practice, during times of crisis. Many other benefits could be realized from this strategy such as improved nursing practice and processes, improved nurse satisfaction, and improved recruitment and retention.

Effects of mindfulness decompression therapy on mental health and job burnout among nurses working in the frontline of the novel coronavirus pandemic: A retrospective study

OBJECTIVES

As the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic continues to spread worldwide, nucleic acid detection is a key step in controlling it. Psychological issues and job burnout of nurses working in nucleic acid sampling roles for long periods have become apparent. This study aimed to explore the effects of mindfulness decompression therapy on mental health and job burnout in front-line nurses working in nucleic acid sampling during the pandemic.

METHODS

Nucleic acid sampling frontline nurses who were positive for burnout on both the Symptom Checklist-90 (SCL-90) and the Maslach Burnout Inventory-General Scale (MBI-GS) were selected as the participants. Frontline nurses in the nucleic acid testing area who received routine psychological nursing intervention from June 2020 to April 2021 were used as the control group. Nurses who received both routine psychological nursing and mindfulness decompression therapy from May 2021 to December 2021 formed the "mindfulness" subject group. We compared the two groups' primary outcome measures of SCL-90 and MBI-GS scores.

RESULTS

Before the intervention, there were no significant differences between the two groups in general data, SCL-90 scores, and MBI-GS scores. After the mindfulness decompression therapy, according to SCL-90 and MBI-GS scales, psychological distress and job burnout of nurses in the mindfulness group were significantly better than those in the control group.

CONCLUSION

Mindfulness decompression therapy can effectively improve mental health and relieve job burnout in frontline nurses in nucleic acid sampling areas, which is worthy of clinical application. Randomized controlled trials are still needed, however, to fully confirm the effects of mindfulness decompression therapy.

Work-life balance and professional quality of life among nurse faculty during the COVID-19 pandemic

Background

The rapid transition to online teaching during the COVID-19 pandemic created additional stress and workload issues for nurse faculty. Burnout has been reported in nurse faculty who cite workplace factors that influence satisfaction and work-life balance as major contributing factors.

Purpose

The purpose of this study was to examine life balance and professional quality of life among nurse faculty (N = 216) in 2021 during the first year of the COVID-19 pandemic and to describe the challenges of delivering virtual learning experiences.

Methods

A cross-sectional design was utilized to survey nurse faculty using the Life Balance Inventory and the Professional Quality of Life Scale. Descriptive statistics and correlations were calculated.

Results

Nurse faculty reported an unbalanced life balance (median = 1.76), average compassion satisfaction (median = 40.00), average burnout (median = 24.00), and low secondary traumatic stress (median = 21.00). Narrative themes included (1) COVID-19 pandemic has made balance nearly impossible, (2) Intentional disconnection from work activities, (3) Challenging/changing priorities, (4) Promoting a healthy work environment, and (5) Moral distress and exhaustion.

Discussion

Understanding the factors that influence nurse faculty delivery of virtual learning experiences during the COVID-19 pandemic may provide opportunities to improve nurse faculty work-life balance and professional quality of life.

An Online Mindfulness-based Intervention for Certified Nursing Assistants in Long-term Care

Purpose: Certified nursing assistants (CNAs) make up the largest segment of the long-term care (LTC) setting workforce, however, they are at high risk of job dissatisfaction and burnout. Evidence suggests that mindfulness-based interventions (MBIs) might be particularly relevant and useful for CNAs in reducing psychological distress, improving job satisfaction, and reducing burnout, but little research has investigated this possibility. A feasibility study of an online MBI for CNAs in LTC settings was therefore conducted. Methods: CNAs completed assessments at baseline and posttest. Paired t-tests assessed changes in mindfulness, psychological distress (i.e., depressive and anxiety symptoms, and stress), and professional quality of life. Results: Of the 19 CNAs who started the intervention, N = 13 (68%) completed it and provided postintervention data. Depressive symptoms were significantly decreased postintervention (F = 6.26, p = .036, d = .47). Conclusions: MBIs may have beneficial effects for CNAs in LTC settings. Further research with a larger CNA population will increase the power and relevance of these findings, ultimately contributing to the improvement of patient outcomes in LTC.

Analysis of the Effect of Rational Emotional Intervention Combined with Hierarchical Management Mode on Improving the Psychological Stress of Emergency Nurses and Trainee Nurses

Purpose

To explore the effect of rational emotional intervention combined with hierarchical management mode on improving the psychological stress of emergency nurses and trainee nurses.

Methods

50 emergency nurses who worked or practiced in our hospital from June 2019 to May 2021 were selected as the research object. From June 2019 to May 2020, our hospital adopted the traditional management mode. From June 2020 to May 2021, our hospital adopted the rational emotional intervention combined with hierarchical management mode. The psychological state, work stress, stress response, job burnout, and sleep quality of emergency nurses were compared before and after intervention.

Results

Compared with before intervention, the scores of self-rating anxiety scale and self-rating depression scale, the work stress scores, the Maslach burnout inventory score, the Pittsburgh sleep quality index score of emergency nurses decreased after intervention (P < 0.05). Compared with before intervention, the stress coping scores of emergency nurses increased after intervention (P < 0.05).

Conclusion

The rational emotional intervention combined with hierarchical management mode can improve the psychological pressure of emergency nurses and trainee nurses, reduce job burnout, improve stress coping ability, and improve sleep quality.

Cerebral Blood Flow and Brain Functional Connectivity Changes in Older Adults Participating in a Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction Program

There is a growing interest in the potential beneficial effects of mindfulness meditation training in protecting against age-related physical, emotional, and cognitive decline. The current prospective, single-center, single-arm study investigated if functional magnetic resonance imaging-based changes in cerebral blood flow and brain functional connectivity could be observed in 11 elderly adults (mean age 79) after participation in a Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction (MBSR) program. The results showed significantly (p < 0.05) altered cerebral blood flow and functional connectivity in the cingulate gyrus, limbic structures, and subregions of the temporal and frontal lobes, similar to findings of other meditation-related studies in younger populations. Furthermore, these changes were also associated with significant improvements in depression symptoms. This study suggests that the MBSR program can potentially modify cerebral blood flow and connectivity in this population.