Evaluating the Outcomes of a Web-Based Stress Management Program for Nurses and Nursing Assistants

Objective: The purpose of this quality improvement project was to determine the utilization, satisfaction, and effect of a web-based stress management program for nurses and nursing assistants (NAs). Methods: This quality improvement project provided BREATHE, a web-based stress management program that consisted of six modules that describe, identify, and help nurses manage stress for 31 nurses and NAs working on a subacute rehabilitation unit at a mid-Atlantic community hospital. Measurements: The number of login attempts and time spent on the program were included, as were the nurse stress scale (NSS), a 34-item validated instrument that captures seven dimensions of stress, and a seven-item satisfaction survey given at the end of the modules. Results: Nurses utilized and were satisfied with the evidence-based program BREATHE and reported significant improvement in NSS scores. Linking Evidence to Action: Findings suggest that BREATHE was effective at reducing the NSS score among nurses and NAs. The web-based nature of the program allowed nurses to engage in it at times most convenient for them, which added to the program’s acceptability and overall satisfaction.