GH-07 Effects of Mindfulness on Nursing Student’s Stress Levels: A Feasibility Study
Abstract
Background: Nursing school introduces students to the intense workload and demanding nature that the nursing profession requires. This places them at risk for stress and the negative effects that can follow. This project focused on the feasibility of introducing nursing students to calming strategies and associated outcomes on perceived stress levels.
Methods: An 8-week Mindfulness Based Stress Reduction (MBSR) program served as the project intervention. A Perceived Stress Scale (PSS-10) was administered to participants pre- and post- intervention.
Results: MBSR was beneficial to decrease perceived stress. It was accepted and used by undergraduate nursing students, delivered as planned and integrated using existing resources.
Conclusion: MBSR ensures that student nurses will have the necessary coping skills to deal with the stress of school and the future stresses inherent in a nursing career. It can be incorporated throughout life and have a positive outcome on the student nurse, future nurse, and a nurse's patients.
Keywords: mindfulness, stress, nursing student
GH-07 Effects of Mindfulness on Nursing Student’s Stress Levels: A Feasibility Study
Background: Nursing school introduces students to the intense workload and demanding nature that the nursing profession requires. This places them at risk for stress and the negative effects that can follow. This project focused on the feasibility of introducing nursing students to calming strategies and associated outcomes on perceived stress levels.
Methods: An 8-week Mindfulness Based Stress Reduction (MBSR) program served as the project intervention. A Perceived Stress Scale (PSS-10) was administered to participants pre- and post- intervention.
Results: MBSR was beneficial to decrease perceived stress. It was accepted and used by undergraduate nursing students, delivered as planned and integrated using existing resources.
Conclusion: MBSR ensures that student nurses will have the necessary coping skills to deal with the stress of school and the future stresses inherent in a nursing career. It can be incorporated throughout life and have a positive outcome on the student nurse, future nurse, and a nurse's patients.
Keywords: mindfulness, stress, nursing student