Effectiveness of Evidence-Based Compassion Resilience Intervention on CRNA Perceived Stress

Abstract

Purpose. This quality improvement project aimed to evaluate an evidence-based wellness educational program to lower anesthesia providers’ perceived stress and increase compassion resilience practices. Background. It is well-documented that chronic and unmanaged stress can lead to psychological and physiological consequences that negatively impact Certified Registered Nurse Anesthesiologists’ (CRNA) performance and well-being (Griffen et al., 2017; Jun et al., 2020; Stillwell et al., 2017). High stress levels are commonly reported among new-graduate and experienced CRNAs, leading to undesirable adverse effects, such as anxiety, depression, panic disorders, suicidal thoughts, sleep disturbances, and addictive behaviors (Jun et al., 2020). With CRNAs being twice as likely to suffer from depression and having a higher suicide rate, a proactive approach to CRNA and healthcare provider well-being is needed (Davidson et al., 2021). Methods. Participants were chosen through convenience sampling. A pre-survey with a Perceived Stress Scale (PSS) was distributed. Participants then underwent a five-day intervention that included educational sessions on mindfulness, yoga, and stress management techniques worth 20 continuing education (CE) credits. Following the intervention, participants completed a post-survey, including a PSS reassessment. Data analysis was completed using descriptive statistics and a paired t-test. Results. When comparing participants’ pre- and post-intervention assessments, 90% (n=18) had a reduction, 5% (n=1) had no change, and 5% (n=1) had an increase in their perceived stress scale (PSS) scores. On average, the PSS scores decreased by 12.4 points (44.5%), with many 12 participants’ scores going from moderate or high levels of perceived stress to low levels post- intervention (p < 0.001). Conclusions. The five-day retreat in South Casco, Maine, significantly benefited retreat participants in improving compassion resilience and lowering levels of perceived stress (p < 0.001). This project also sets the stage for future research and sustainable achievements in CRNA compassion resilience and well-being.