Exploring the Role of Embedded Resilience Training in a Doctor of Nursing Practice Program

Background: Graduate nursing students face unique challenges balancing the demands of school, work, and personal life, putting both their academic success and individual well-being at risk. Objectives: This study examined the impact of embedding Community Resiliency Model^© training in a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) program at a U.S. public university to determine the utility of and perceived need for resilience training in this population and measure student resilience, burnout, and posttraumatic growth. Methods: A quantitative, pre/post design was used to evaluate outcomes via surveys utilizing open-ended questions and three validated instruments before and following resilience training. Results: Among 98 students who participated, the training was described as good to excellent quality (95%) and most (85%) continued to use the skills learned. All students recommended that resilience training should be included in a DNP program. There were no statistically significant differences in measures of resilience, burnout, or posttraumatic growth. Conclusions: A holistic approach including building resilience is needed to appropriately support graduate nursing students. Implications for Nursing: Resilience training is essential to equip DNP students with the skills needed to navigate demands of personal and professional life while ensuring their own well-being and that of those they serve.