Stress Buster…Introducing “Quiet Time” for Neonatal Nurses

Purpose for the program:

“Quiet Time” was developed in this level III NICU as a strategy to reduce stress among the staff.  Due to the highly technical nature of this unit and the complexity of the patient population, staff experienced high levels of stress that was exhibited by poor morale, absenteeism and poor interpersonal relationships in the work environment.  To alleviate the impact this highly stressful environment was having on staff, mindful meditation as a strategy was introduced.  The purpose of mindful meditation is to allow the staff to be self-aware of escalating stress levels and provide techniques for stress reduction that is healing and restorative.  This unique and innovative approach provided the outlet the staff needed.

Proposed change:

Reduce the stress levels of the NICU staff by using mindful meditation as a unique and innovative strategy.  Providing the opportunity for “Quiet Time” to accomplish stress reduction and enhance the bedside care (calm nurse, calm baby) and improve the way nurses handle stressful situations in the unit.

Implementation, outcomes and evaluation:

In 2009, NICU staff identified they were suffering from high stress levels that were evidenced by poor morale, absenteeism and poor interpersonal relationships in the work environment.  A program was developed to relieve stress among staff using a holistic approach.  Personnel skilled in holistic strategies were identified.    Staff members volunteered to spearhead the development of a program that came to be known as “Quiet Time”.  Program leaders had varying degrees of experience and skill in meditation. One leader further developed the necessary skills by becoming a meditation specialist. “Quiet Time” was structured as 15 minute sessions; repeated immediately back-to-back to maximize staff attendance. During the session, lighting is dimmed; aroma therapy, guided imagery and soft bell sounds are used. Techniques focus on abdominal breathing and respiration control. Progress is monitored by a series of questions about stress levels.  Prior to the session, staff self-rate their stress level using a likert scale. This is repeated at the end of the session to gauge the effect meditation had on the participant.  Data collected since the inception of the program has shown on average, a 72% reduction in stress levels.

Implications for nursing practice:

“Quiet Time” for neonatal nurses reduces the stress level of staff exhibited as poor morale, absenteeism and poor interpersonal relationships in the work environment and therefore impacting patient care.

Keywords:

Stress Reduction

Neonatal Nurses

Meditation