Implementation of a mindfulness campaign to reduce nurse burnout: A quality improvement project.

Abstract

Nurse burnout in the ICU is driven by long hours, a high-pressure environment, and overwhelming workloads, which were exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic. This quality improvement project aimed to decrease burnout among ICU nurses by implementing a mindfulness campaign. Pre- and post-intervention surveys, utilizing the Maslach Burnout Inventory (MBI), were conducted to measure changes in burnout levels. Participants engaged in the 5-4-3-2-1 mindfulness method, designed to reduce stress through sensory engagement, and received badge cards for easy reference during their shifts. Results showed a small effect size in all three MBI subcategories, with a nonsignificant decrease in emotional exhaustion scores. Although the mindfulness intervention provided a helpful stress management tool, a significant reduction in burnout requires institution-level changes to address systemic stressors and promote nurse retention.