Date of Award

3-31-2022

Document Type

Capstone

Degree Name

Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP)

School Name

Donna and Allan Lansing School of Nursing and Health Sciences

Department

Nursing

Major Advisor

Dr. Kathy Hager

Abstract

The purpose of this paper is to demonstrate the need for implementation of evidence-based anxiety-reducing interventions at a College of Nursing in the southeastern United States. Stress and anxiety have been shown to negatively impact an individual’s health and academic performance. Research studies have demonstrated that individuals who have high levels of anxiety are more likely to experience illness and drop out of school. In order to improve population health, academic outcomes, and clinical practice, it is important that institutions of higher learning incorporate anxiety-reducing programs into their curriculums. Evidence suggests that use of Mindfulness Based Stress Reduction (MBSR) interventions is one of the most effective ways to reduce anxiety. These techniques not only show improved short-term goals, but also have a longer lasting effect than many other anxiety-reducing interventions.

The goal of this project was to identify students with increased anxiety and determine the effectiveness of providing them with multiple evidence-based anxiety reducing interventions.

Nursing students were recruited to participate in a 4-week project to determine if participating in mindfulness meditation would be helpful in managing their stress and anxiety. Results from the State Trait Anxiety Inventory Tool were compared to identify anxiety levels of the participants pre and post intervention. Academic performance of participants versus class averages was also evaluated to determine the influence of MBSR interventions.

Due to the low number of project participants, no statistical analysis could be performed. However, there was a clinically significant decrease in anxiety levels and a slight trend toward improved academic outcomes for the project participants.

Available for download on Monday, April 01, 2024

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