An Asynchronous Evidence-Based Mindfulness Intervention for Professional Nurses

Purpose: To evaluate the impact of an abbreviated (4-week) and asynchronous, mindfulness-based intervention (MBI) on nurses' perceived stress and mindful attention and awareness. Design: An evidence-based quality improvement pilot program. Methods: The participants (n = 15 nurses) attended a 4-week, asynchronous MBI. The participants attended a 90-minute webinar on mindfulness as a prerequisite, followed by 4 weeks of guided meditation and informal mindfulness practice materials. The MBI was offered remotely with self-modulated practice. Participants also provided the number of days per week they participated in formal meditation practice. Project participants completed pre- and post-intervention questionnaires. Project instruments included the Mindful Attention Awareness Scale (MAAS) and the 10-item Perceived Stress Scale (PSS). Findings: 12 complete pre-and post-intervention surveys were analyzed. Significant improvements were noted in participant mean MAAS scores post-intervention (p = .004). Cumulative PSS scores also decreased post-intervention (p = .009). Conclusion: The 4-week MBI demonstrated a statistically significant impact on nurses' perceived stress and mindful attention and awareness. Additionally, this Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) student led program was offered in an asynchronous and remote format, which was received well by program participants and may be a practical option for future MBIs.