Brief mindfulness-based stress reduction program for nurses and professional caregivers

The brief mindfulness-based stress reduction (MBSR) program is a structured four-week training program developed for nurses and professional caregivers. This study is an evaluation of its effectiveness. MBSR participants' (n = 16) pre-post ratings on a number of outcomes were compared to that of two control groups: A control group receiving relaxation training (n = 10) and a no-treatment control group (n = 16). Both mindfulness and relaxation training were effective in increasing relaxation and improving participants' level of satisfaction with their lives. However, the results suggest that MBSR may be a more effective intervention to reduce burnout, and in particular, emotional exhaustion. An important component of this thesis is a series of practical recommendations regarding service delivery and conducting applied research with nurses and professional caregivers.