Keywords

built environment, ED, emergency department, facility design and construction, occupational health, resilience, stress reduction, workplace stress

 

Authors

  1. Salmela, Lynn MA, RN-BC
  2. Woehrle, Theo MPA
  3. Marleau, Eastan
  4. Kitch, Laura MS, APRN, CNS

Abstract

Abstract: Work-related stress is common within the nursing profession, especially in the ED. Studies have shown that interventions to improve hospital working environments positively impact retention and help prevent burnout. This nursing practice innovation project describes the development, implementation, and evaluation of a restorative space (the "Serenity Room") in a busy regional ED. The evaluation of this project focused on the effectiveness of the room at reducing stress and the value ED staff place on having access to a restorative space. Data were gathered through pre- and postimplementation surveys.