A central component of the program is the color-coded Stress Continuum that provides nurses with a common language to use regarding stress reactions , which , in turn , reduces stigma . It uses a universal color system that most people can easily recognize — green , yellow , orange , and red . Stress responses lie along a spectrum of severity and type : A green response represents optimal function and wellness , and a red response indicating severe distress . Nurses in the program learn to discuss their own stress by sharing zone levels , such as “ I ’ m in the orange zone right now , can we talk ?”
The December 2022 Pulse on the Nation ’ s Nurses Survey found that , while the pandemic had an impact on the entire nursing profession , nurses under 35 and nurses of color indicated higher levels of stress , as well as lower states of optimism and emotional health ( Foundation , 2022 ). A focus on younger nurses and nurses of color was woven into the program to ensure their voices and needs were fully represented . In addition , nurses shared that they believed the program wouldn ’ t truly “ take hold ” unless their leaders were trained and using the concepts themselves . “ We heard from the nurses in our pilot sites and focus groups that they need their leaders to embrace and model a culture of well-being for this program to be successful . We developed an additional Leadership Training component to support leaders and give them the tools and resources to achieve that goal ,” said Nyuma Harrison , RN , EML , Director of Programs at the Foundation .
The full program is now available free to all nurses via the American Nurses Association ( ANA ) learning management system . The topics for the course include a preview module , the full training course , the supplemental leadership training , and facilitator training for those who wish to implement the program at their own organization . Additional resources include a downloadable implementation guide and customizable training materials . Continuing nursing education credits are available for nurses who complete the course .
A powerful testament to the program ’ s impact is a pilot site ’ s plans to expand beyond individual units to the entire health care system . “ Nurses in other units began hearing about Stress First Aid and asking when they would get it . This program gives nurses a language to talk about their stress . It makes it ok to not be ok and that is comforting ,” said Rocky Hauch , DNP , RN , PCCN , Advanced Professional Development Practitioner at BayCare Health . Given the success of the program and the positive effect on nurses in the pilot units , BayCare will be rolling out Stress First Aid across its entire system of 16 hospitals , having a profound
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