Protocol for a mixed methods process evaluation of the Promoting Resilience in Nurses (PRiN) trial

Area of Science:

• Nursing
• Mental Health
• Occupational Health

Background:

• Mental health nurses experience significant occupational stress, impacting well-being and retention.
• Resilience training is crucial for mitigating negative effects and improving workforce stability.
• The Promoting Resilience in Nurses (PRiN) program utilizes cognitive behavioral and interpersonal approaches.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the effectiveness of the PRiN program on mental health nurses' resilience, well-being, and intention to stay.
• To conduct a mixed-methods process evaluation of the PRiN program implementation.
• To identify factors influencing program outcomes and inform future adaptations.

Main Methods:

• A partially clustered randomized controlled trial design.
• Embedded mixed methods process evaluation including surveys, interviews, and fidelity checklists.
• Utilizing Normalisation Process Theory for data analysis and integration.

Main Results:

• The study protocol outlines the evaluation of PRiN's impact on coping self-efficacy, resilience, well-being, and turnover intention.
• Process evaluation data will explore participant satisfaction, barriers, facilitators, and fidelity.
• Findings are expected to explain outcome variations and inform program sustainability.

Conclusions:

• The PRiN program has the potential to enhance mental health nurse well-being and retention.
• Process evaluation is vital for understanding complex intervention implementation.
• Results will guide future program adaptation and scalability in healthcare settings.