Exploring the Role of Embedded Resilience Training in a Doctor of Nursing Practice Program Academic Article uri icon

Abstract

  • 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.
    Objective. 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 on measures of student resilience, burnout, and post-traumatic growth, along with determining the utility of and perceived need for resilience training in this population.
    Methods. A quantitative, pre/post design was used to evaluate outcomes via surveys utilizing 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 post-traumatic 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 the demands of personal and professional life while ensuring their own well-being and that of those they serve.

Publication Date

  • 2026-04-01