Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) Projects

Mindfulness-based Stress Reduction (MBSR) in Reducing Stress in Nursing Students: An Integrative Review and Toolkit

Donna J. Petko

Abstract

Background: Across the country, nursing students are experiencing alarming amounts of stress. While stress is a common phenomenon, it has been shown to negatively impact nursing student performance and general health. One solution to this issue is mindfulness-based stress reduction (MBSR). Reported effects of MBSR include stress reduction; mindfulness; improvements in self-esteem; increase in general health; a decrease in anxiety; and an increase in empathy. Because MBSR is not widely included in nursing curricula, students are not learning stress reduction techniques needed to manage daily stress. Purpose: To address this gap, a DNP project was implemented at a university site. The project’s purpose was two-fold: To increase the knowledge of faculty and to provide educational resources for students. Methods: A toolkit was developed that included a Power Point presentation for faculty; a copy of the Perceived Stress Scale (PSS); and handouts on stress and MBSR techniques for students. Thirty-four faculty in an online family nurse practitioner program were offered the toolkit at one university in California; five faculty participated and completed the surveys. Results: Valuable data was obtained on the effectiveness of the presentation on faculty knowledge, perception, acceptance, and willingness to use the resources provided. Conclusion: When provided with a toolkit on stress and MBSR techniques, faculty became more aware of the significance of stress and stated they were willing to utilize the resources provided in future online classes.