Nurses' Experiences with Mind-Body Practices for Stress Reduction
Author Information
Author(s): Kathi Kemper, Sally Bulla, Deborah Krueger, Mary Jane Ott, Jane A McCool, Paula Gardiner
Primary Institution: Wake Forest University Baptist Medical Center
Hypothesis
What experiences, expectations, and preferences do nurses have regarding mind-body practices to reduce stress?
Conclusion
Most nurses interested in mind-body training already engage in such practices and have greater expectations about spiritual and emotional benefits.
Supporting Evidence
- 99% of nurses reported using one or more mind-body practices to reduce stress.
- 65% of nurses wanted additional training in mind-body practices.
- 74% of nurses considered convenience essential in choosing a training program.
- Most nurses expected greater emotional and spiritual benefits from mind-body practices.
Takeaway
Nurses often use mind-body practices like meditation and prayer to feel less stressed, and they want more training that fits easily into their busy lives.
Methodology
An anonymous email survey was conducted among North American nurses interested in mind-body training to reduce stress.
Potential Biases
The survey was conducted via email, which may limit generalizability as only those with email access participated.
Limitations
The study may overestimate experiences and expectations due to self-selection bias, and the sample lacked ethnic diversity.
Participant Demographics
96% women, 92% Caucasian, 63% over 45 years old, and 80% with 10 or more years of practice.
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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