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theses

Purpose: Research shows that student registered nurse anesthetists (SRNA) are exposed to harmful levels of stress during nurse anesthesia programs. Stress has negative physical and psychological effects that impact an SRNAs self-efficacy and coping skills in the didactic and clinical settings. Literature shows that the implementation of mindfulness techniques in other student populations has been successful in resisting stress’ negative effects. This prospective, qualitative, pilot study was done to ascertain if the application of a mindfulness program will have a beneficial effect on SRNA self-efficacy, coping skills, and stress. Second-year SRNAs’ (n = 22) baseline levels of self-efficacy, mindfulness, and stress were measured using adapted versions of the General Self- Efficacy Scale (GSE), Cognitive and Affective Mindfulness Scale-Revised (CAMS-R), and Perceived Stress Scale (PSS).

Methodology: The mindfulness program was implemented. It comprised of a lecture about mindfulness and was followed by practicing its’ various techniques. Post- and post-post-intervention surveys were completed by participants immediately after the program and 2 months afterward. Bivariate analysis was done using the Wilcoxon signed-rank test to compare pre- with post- and pre- with post-post-intervention surveys. Post- and post post- GSE, CAMS-R scores increased, while PSS decreased.

Results: Results showed pre- with post- and pre- with post post- intervention scores for CAMS-R and PSS to be statistically significant (p < 0.05) and GSE (p > 0.05) as not statistically significant.

Implications for Practice: Results support that the implementation of a mindfulness program has beneficial effects for SRNAs especially with the improvement of mindfulness and stress.

ETD_10694

doi:10.7282/t3-h1bc-zz31

DNP

Includes bibliographical references

ETD doctoral

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