ZenDen for Nurses Arrives at MSU Health Care
August 8, 2024
MSU Health Care nurses now have a place to decompress during the workday, that includes yoga classes, massages, and nutritional counseling thanks to funds awarded through the Nurse Health and Wellness Grant.
The Nurse Health and Wellness Grant, administered by the MDHHS Office of Nursing Program, provides funds to healthcare systems to support the retention and wellbeing of the nursing workforce. According to the American Hospital Association, two-thirds or 62% of nurses working in the United States experience burnout.
MSU Health Care received $55,000 to develop the ZenDen. The program was developed in the hopes that MSU Health Care is able to maintain a 90% staff retention rate for nurses across the board by curating a culture of mindfulness and wellness.
“We want to reward our nurses for the care they provide and all that they do for our community,” said Jennifer Preece, nurse manager. “Giving the nurses an opportunity to take time out during lunch to just relax or get a massage should help to reduce anxiety and the stress of being a caregiver.”
Nurses should feel free to visit the “ZenDen” during a break in their day to access the wellness services. Licensed massage therapists and nutritionists are on site. Nurses may attend a free Nutrition Goal Setting Session and receive 12 months of nutrition counseling. A yoga class is offered weekly during lunch hours and massages are offered in-person. Additional wellness services are available virtually. The “ZenDen” is now open to all nursing staff members and is located at 4660 South Hagadorn Rd on the first floor.
"Nurses play a critical role in our healthcare system, and their work is both demanding and essential.” said Kathleen Fox, human resources director for MSU Health Care. “Offering a quiet and restful place to decompress will allow for them to recharge. Our sincere hope is for our team to secure that proper work/life harmony. Well-rested nurses are more alert which supports delivering high-quality care."
