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Document Type

DNP - University Access Only

Award Date

2022

Degree Name

Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP)

Department

Graduate Nursing

First Advisor

Robin Arends

Second Advisor

Kay Foland

Keywords

women, female, guided imagery, stress, perceived stress scale

Abstract

Introduction: The effects of stress distinctively and uniquely impact adult women. Guided imagery is a low-cost and easy-to-apply intervention to lower perceived stress levels. Evidence Summary: Four overarching themes were identified from the literature: a) the positive correlation between guided imagery and stress reduction; b) the structure of a guided imagery intervention lends it to be low cost and easy to apply; c) issues with compliance rates correlate with the frequency of participant check-ins and tracking methods; and d) the strengths of the Perceived Stress Scale including internal consistency calls for its use over the Perceived Stress Reactivity Scale. Gaps: A lack of published research on rural populations or individuals who do not speak English was identified. Limited recent high-quality evidence focusing specifically on stress in the women’s population was available. Recommendations: Guided imagery sessions are most effective when administered for 20 minutes, once a day, over four to 12 weeks. Compliance and tracking rates can be improved with periodic phone call check-ins. Addressing rural population literature gaps also needs to occur.

Library of Congress Subject Headings

Imagery (Psychology) -- Therapeutic use.
Stress management for women.
Women -- Health and hygiene.
Stress (Psychology)
Stress (Physiology)

Number of Pages

72

Publisher

South Dakota State University

Rights

© 2022 Britney Ohrlund

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