Aim
To assess the effect of a 4‐week mindfulness‐based training intervention on improving stress, anxiety, depression and job satisfaction among ward nurses.
Background
Previous literature showed that mindfulness‐based training is useful for helping nurses cope with stress.
Method
Nurses who have mild to moderate levels of stress, anxiety and depression identified from a teaching hospital were invited to a randomized control trial. The intervention group had a 2‐hr Mindfulness‐Based Training workshop, followed by 4 weeks of guided self‐practice Mindfulness‐Based Training website. Both the intervention group (n = 118) and the control group (n = 106) were evaluated pre‐ and post‐intervention, and 8 weeks later (follow‐up) using the Depression, Anxiety, and Stress Scale‐21, Job Satisfaction Scale and Mindful Attention Awareness Scale.
Results
There was a significant effect over time on stress, anxiety, depression and mindfulness level (p < .05). Regarding the difference between the groups and interaction between time and group, there was a significant effect for anxiety (p = .037 p = .008) and job satisfaction (p < .001, p = .40), respectively, with moderate effect size for anxiety reduction (.465) and small for job satisfaction increment (.221).
Conclusion
Mindfulness‐Based Training is effective in improving anxiety and job satisfaction among nurses.
Clinical Implications for Nursing Management
Mindfulness‐Based Training can be included as hospital policy to reduce anxiety and increase job satisfaction among nurses.