Jin Shin Jyutsu® Self-Help Reduces Nurse Stress: A Randomized Controlled Study

Abstract

Purpose: The purpose of this research was to explore the impact of Jin Shin Jyutsu (JSJ) Self-Help on personal stress and the caring efficacy of nurses. Design: A randomized, controlled comparison study, with crossover design was conducted. Method: Stress and caring efficacy were measured via surveys at baseline, posteducation, and again 30 to 40 days after completion of the JSJ educational intervention. Self-reported stress was the primary endpoint as measured with the validated Personal and Organizational Quality Assessment-Revised 4 Scale (POQA-R4) survey. Caring Efficacy was measured using the Coates Caring Efficacy Scale. Findings: A total of 41 nurses consented and completed the study; 18 were in the education group and 23 were in the control group. Changes in stress were sustained in the education group for the POQA-R4. Changes observed in the control group were not sustained. Statistical differences were observed when comparing education and control from baseline to final surveys for measures of emotional vitality and buoyancy. Increases in nursing caring efficacy were observed in both groups. Scores were consistently higher in the education group. Statistically significant differences were observed from baseline to final measure for the education group. Conclusions: Results show JSJ as a viable option for stress reduction in nurses.

Keywords: Jin Shin Jyutsu; Watson; caring efficacy; nurse stress; self–care; self–help; stress.