Effect of a Nurse-Led, Patient-Centered, Gratitude Intervention on Patient Hospitalization Experience

Objectives were to evaluate patient perceptions of a nurse-led, patient-centered gratitude intervention and if nurses identified actionable items to improve patient's hospitalization experience.

Research demonstrates positive effects of gratitude and caring interventions on patient health and well-being. Evidence is sparse regarding nurse-led gratitude interventions improving hospitalized patient's experiences.

In this pilot study, 91 adult medical patients completed gratitude forms twice daily for up to 6 shifts and a study discharge form documenting intervention perceptions. In response to the patients' gratitude-related feedback, RNs recorded patient experience-related actions they and interprofessional teams could implement.

On average, patients perceived the nurse-led gratitude intervention as helpful (4.2) (1 = very unhelpful, 5 = very helpful) and improved hospitalization experiences (4.3) (1 = seldom, 5 = never). Most of the time actions were required or to be taken, based on patient gratitude intervention responses.

Patient perceptions of nurse-led gratitude intervention demonstrated helpfulness and improved hospitalization experience.