Does mindfulness-based stress reduction training have an impact on the occupational burnout and stress experienced by nurses? A randomized controlled trial.

A single-blinded randomized controlled trial with 60 emergency medical center nurses tested an eight-session Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction (MBSR) program. The intervention group showed statistically significant improvements in all occupational stress subscales (P < 0.05) and burnout subscale scores (P < 0.001) compared to the control group. The authors argue that MBSR can boost resilience and job satisfaction, potentially enhancing patient care, and recommend integrating MBSR programs for nursing staff well-being. The study was registered in the Iranian Registry of Clinical Trials (IRCT20131112015390N5).

Study at a glance

Abstract

In an effort to combat burnout, a study investigates Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction (MBSR) training for nurses. The goal is to reduce stress and improve job satisfaction, ultimately enhancing patient care. These findings may inspire the development of mindfulness-based support systems for healthcare professionals to promote overall well-being in the workplace. A single-blinded, randomized controlled trial with 60 emergency medical center nurses was conducted to assess the effectiveness of an eight-session MBSR program in reducing stress and burnout. The randomization process, utilizing sealed envelopes, ensured unbiased allocation to intervention or control groups. The training program included group sessions focused on meditation, yoga, and discussions, with participants receiving educational materials and CDs for home practice. Collected data included demographics, Maslach Burnout Inventory, and Occupational Stress Questionnaire results. Statistical analysis, utilizing SPSS version 21, featured Kolmogorov-Smirnov, Mann-Whitney U, and Wilcoxon tests to evaluate outcomes. Following MBSR Training, the intervention group displayed statistically significant differences in all occupational stress subscales compared to the control group (P < 0.05). Post-intervention, the intervention group also exhibited significant differences in burnout subscale scores (P < 0.001) compared to the control group. MBSR can boost resilience and job satisfaction, enhancing patient care. Healthcare organizations should integrate MBSR programs for nursing staff well-being and combat stress and burnout. Research should probe long-term impacts and effective delivery methods for sustained stress relief in nursing. This study has registered in Iranian Registry of Clinical Trials by the number of IRCT20131112015390N5 on Jun 2022.