Feasibility and Impact of a Group Wellness Intervention for Nursing Faculty: A Mixed-Methods Study of Mindset, Connection, and Culture

Abstract

Background: Nursing faculty experience high levels of stress and burnout, yet few wellness interventions tailored to this population have been evaluated.

Purpose: This study examined the feasibility and impact of an 8-week group stretching program on burnout, physical activity, and well-being among academic nursing faculty.

Methods: Twenty-one faculty at X University completed pre-intervention surveys, with 12 completed post-intervention surveys. A mixed-methods design included the Maslach Burnout Inventory, International Physical Activity Questionnaire, and open-ended qualitative questions. Wilcoxon Signed-Rank Tests assessed quantitative changes; thematic analysis examined qualitative data.

Results: Quantitative analyses showed no significant changes in burnout or physical activity. Qualitative findings revealed reductions in perceived stress, enhanced mindfulness, improved job satisfaction, and strengthened social connection.

Conclusions: Brief, group-based wellness activities foster psychological and social benefits that may precede measurable reductions in burnout. Integrating such interventions into faculty workdays can promote resilience and well-being despite time constraints.