Implementation of a Zen Room and Mindfulness Techniques to Decrease Perceived Burnout

Authors

Danika ScottFollow

Author Biographical Info

Danika Scott is a registered nurse based in Houston, Texas, currently enrolled in the Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) program at The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston (UTHealth). She earned her Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) in 2019 and began her career as an intensive care unit and psychiatric mental health nurse. Following this, she spent three years as a travel nurse, gaining diverse clinical experience across five different cities. In Houston, she has served in multiple health systems, including LBJ Hospital, Houston Methodist, and Memorial Hermann. Originally from Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, Ms. Scott is committed to advancing her expertise in mental health, with the long-term goal of practicing as a psychiatric/mental health nurse practitioner.

Date of Doctor of Nursing Practice Project Completion

Summer 2025

Faculty Advisor

Dr. Susan Stafford

Abstract

Purpose: The purpose of this quality improvement (QI) project was to implement a Zen room and mindfulness techniques, aiming to improve job satisfaction by 65% and reduce perceived burnout by 10% among behavioral health staff. The project was conducted at a substance abuse center in Deer Park, TX.

Background: Behavioral health staff face high levels of emotional exhaustion and job-related stress, leading to increased burnout.

Methodology: The Plan-Do-Study-Act model guided the QI methodology using a sample of 23 behavioral health staff. Interventions included an equipped Zen space and wellness resources. Data collection utilized the Maslach Burnout Inventory and a tailored satisfaction survey, administered pre- and post-intervention. Descriptive statistics measured changes in perceived burnout and satisfaction levels. Limitations included a small sample size and short duration. The project aligned with QI principles by addressing system-level wellness needs.

Results: Staff reported enhanced focus, reduced stress during shifts, and consistent use of mindfulness resources. Findings revealed a 60% reduction in average perceived burnout scores and 73% of participants reported increased job satisfaction.

The intervention was integrated into daily routines with minimal disruption. Staff and leadership strongly support maintaining and expanding the wellness space for broader implementation.

Implications: Workplace culture shifted, with staff valuing dedicated time and space for mental restoration. The ease of implementation and positive reception suggest that similar strategies could be replicated across other high-stress clinical areas. The consistency of feedback underscores a real need for structured wellness support.

Future efforts should include ongoing evaluation and staff-led enhancements.

Keywords

Zen room, mindfulness techniques, nurse burnout, job satisfaction, wellness interventions, behavioral health, psychiatric mental health, workplace culture

Recommended Citation

Danika Scott, "Implementation of a Zen Room and Mindfulness Techniques to Decrease Perceived Burnout" (2025). Doctor of Nursing Practice Final Project Abstract. 113.
https://digitalcommons.library.tmc.edu/dnp_abstract/113