Preview
Creation Date
10-2017
Description
Research clearly documents job stress among nurses, but methods used to prevent stress can be time-intensive and inconvenient at the point of care. Mindfulness-based interventions have been shown to reduce anxiety and stress in nurses and other healthcare professionals. Integrating the self-care strategy of intentionally using hand hygiene opportunities as a mindfulness practice while at work may reduce perceived job stress in the patient care team. A review of the literature reveals there are limited studies of using hand washing to promote mindfulness in the hospital setting, and that more research is indicated. This project seeks to provide bedside staff with experiences of intentional hand hygiene and an educational session to promote self-awareness in conjunction with the Complementary Alternative Medicine (CAM) project, promoting the M-Technique massage, led by Allison Kostrzewa and Kayte Bak. The Intentional Hand Hygiene portion of the CAM educational sessions will be offered to patient care team volunteers. It will include self-reflection to promote self and situational awareness, breathing techniques, yoga, and simulation of intentional hand hygiene experiences using the STOP technique (Stop, Take a breath, Observe, Proceed). Intentional hand hygiene can be easily incorporated into the work day of the patient care team, and may produce a healthier workforce by reducing perceived stress and enhancing personal and professional well-being, job fulfillment, communication, and job satisfaction.