How did you experience the effects of this Pilot (MSC) training?
From pre- to post-intervention, participants reported a statistically significant increase in self-compas- sion, mindfulness, compassion sat- isfaction, and resilience. Participants also experienced statistically signifi- cant decreases in compassion fa- tigue and burnout. The effect size Cohen’s d effect size, which is the standardized difference between two means, ranged from d = .82 to d = 1.5 for all variables. Lastly, the major themes that emerged from the qualitative data included enhanced coping, positive mental state, and reduced stress.
While the mixed-methods results were significant, no follow-up was conducted to assess the sustainabil- ity of the results. That being said, the MSC training was practical, meaning each module could be tai- lored to later be applied to nurses’ shifts when they returned to work. Participants reported strong satisfac-
tion with the MSC training pro- gram, indicating the potential im- portance and enjoyment of applying such coping strategies in healthcare settings.
Practical techniques for nurses This study is of special interest for a multitude of reasons. First, self- compassion training has been found to improve healthy behavior self- regulation as a means of coping, enhance resilience to difficulty and stressors, and promote healthcare job satisfaction.7-9 MSC is also easy to implement through in-service training, through various modalities such as face-to-face, online, pod- cast; in groups or individually; is free of cost; and can be tailored to the needs of the unit. While the MSC training discussed involved 2.5-hour sessions, research has found that people can reap the ben- efits of MSC through as little as 5 minutes of practice per day.7 Nurses are encouraged to engage in a mo- ment of self-compassion during change-of-shift or huddle. Mindful self-compassionate cue words and reminders can be posted in the staff room or via weekly team emails. It is important for healthcare leaders to encourage nurses to reflect on stress management habits and nega- tive emotional states related to their jobs. Through such awareness, nurses can begin to extend self- compassion both at and away from work. Self-compassion can also be elicited through journaling, letter writing, or imagery, all of which can be practiced at the beginning of a shift, during breaks, or at the end of a shift. Healthcare workers who reg- ularly engage in self-compassion training may be more resilient to stressors and burnout, have stronger relationships at work, and provide compassionate care because they have first extended compassion to themselves. ■
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Duke D. Biber is an assistant professor of Health and Community Wellness at the University of West Geor- gia in Carrollton, Ga.
The author has disclosed no potential conflicts of interest, financial or otherwise.
DOI-10.1097/01.NURSE.0000827152.10997.19
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