The implementation and evaluation of a smartphone mindfulness-based application on the mental health of critical care nurses

Purpose of Project: This DNP project was a quality improvement initiative aimed at designing, implementing, and evaluating a smartphone mindfulness-based application on the mental health of critical care nurses. Methodology: The project began with a brief educational session during a virtual monthly staff meeting on mindfulness and nurses were oriented to the Insight Timer® smartphone application. Usage of the application was tracked on a weekly basis through surveys and feedback evaluation of the intervention was measured at the end of the project. Results: Out of an anticipated 50 participants, 26 MICU/CCU nurses participated in the surveys. 67%, 62%, and 38% felt that the Insight Timer® smartphone application was useful in decreasing feelings of stress, anxiety, and burnout, respectively. Open-ended questions revealed that the Insight Timer® application was user-friendly and easily accessible. Implications: Although the sample size was small, this project demonstrated the importance of providing healthcare workers a tool that is easily accessible, affordable, and beneficial at delivering mental health support. Other clinical implications include advancing healthcare policy, bettering quality & safety, expanding education to include mindfulness-based classes both locally and nationally, and improving the economic viability of the healthcare system.D.N.P.Includes bibliographical reference