Date of Degree

8-2021

Document Type

Doctoral Project

Degree Name

Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP)

Program

Nursing

Advisor

Laura Muñoz

Advisor

David Allen

Abstract

Background and Significance of the Problem. Nurses are exposed to higher levels of occupational stress in acute care units when compared to other departments within the hospital (Faraji et al., 2019). A qualitative assessment identified a need for resources to be provided for acute care nurses experiencing occupational stress. Purpose. To establish an area for respite and increase nurses’ knowledge about a Resilience Room and a support system to manage occupational stress. Objectives. To educate 75% of acute care nurse on respite care, have 50% of the nurses report utilization of Resilience Room, and increase the nurses use of a support system by 25%. Methods. In a quality improvement project conducted in a large metropolitan hospital a respite area with a massage chair, music and aromatherapy was established. All acute care nurses received education on the room and support system with a follow-up survey administered at week three and six of project. Results. The Resilience Room was used by 100% of nurses with the massage chair the most commonly used feature in the room. Seventy-one percent of the nurses who completed the survey reported a positive response. There was also a 36% increase in use of the support system. Implications for Nursing. The provision of a Resilience Room and support system is an effective way to assist acute care nurses. The overall response to the Resilience Room was positive and will be maintained for future use. The establishment of additional respite sites may be useful to other staff.

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