Feasibility of implementing a mindfulness-based program for paediatric intensive care unit staff

Background: Paediatric intensive care unit (PICU) clinicians are particularly susceptible to workplace stress due to frequent ethical dilemmas (for example, perceptions of futile or unethical treatment), patient morbidity and mortality, sleep disruption, and emotional exhaustion, putting them at increased risk of anxiety, depression, and burnout. The psychological well-being of these healthcare professionals is vital for maintaining high standards of patient care and safety.

Objective: The aim of this study was to evaluate the feasibility of implementing a mindfulness-based program among PICU staff, with a focus on acceptability and barriers to participation.

Methods: Weekly 20-min guided group-practice sessions in mindfulness, with both in-person and virtual attendance options, were held over a 6-month period. These sessions were offered to medical, nursing, and allied health staff working in the PICU of a specialist paediatric hospital in Queensland, Australia, serving families from Queensland and northern New South Wales. The program was offered during a period of increased personal and occupational stress arising from the delivery of high-acuity care during the global COVID-19 pandemic.

Findings: The program was successfully delivered within the PICU setting, with most participants expressing interest in continuation of the program (72%). Qualitative responses suggested perceived individual and collective well-being benefits, alongside generally positive perceptions of the program. However, participants also identified important barriers to participation, including workload pressures and rostering constraints.

Conclusions: This study suggests that implementation of a mindfulness-based program within a PICU setting may be feasible while also highlighting important operational barriers to participation in high-acuity healthcare environments. Qualitative findings indicated generally positive staff perceptions and perceived acceptability of the program. Further research using longitudinal designs is recommended to better understand implementation considerations and potential longer-term outcomes associated with mindfulness-based interventions in PICU settings.