A Nature-Based Intervention to Support the Well-Being of Baccalaureate Nursing Students

J Nurs Educ. 2024 Feb;63(2):116-119. doi: 10.3928/01484834-20231205-07. Epub 2024 Feb 1.

Abstract

Background: The high stress of nursing education can adversely affect students' well-being. Nature-based therapies aim to lessen stress. There is a gap in knowledge related to nature-based therapies and the nursing student population. The aims of this study were: (1) to describe the well-being of nursing students; and (2) to assess the effects of a nature-based intervention on students' anxiety, stress, relatedness, resilience, and well-being.

Method: This descriptive study included 28 nursing students at a midwestern university. Participants completed online questionnaires before and after a nature-based intervention at an arboretum that consisted of five 1-hour designated nature walks guided by an audio recording.

Results: Participants' mean (SD) scores for well-being were classified as average before the intervention (54.3 [3.7]) and increased significantly after the intervention (55.3 [3.2]) (p = .04).

Conclusion: With rising stress and anxiety levels among college students, nature interventions can support nursing students' overall well-being. [J Nurs Educ. 2024;63(2):116-119.].

MeSH terms

  • Education, Nursing*
  • Education, Nursing, Baccalaureate*
  • Humans
  • Relaxation Therapy
  • Resilience, Psychological*
  • Students, Nursing*