Therapy Dog Effects on Nursing Student Stress: A Mixed Methods Study.

BACKGROUND: Nursing students experience stress levels that may interfere with success in rigorous nursing programs. While evidence indicates therapy dogs can decrease stress, no intervention standards exist, and outcomes are usually measured with questionnaires. PURPOSE: The purpose of this research was to enhance empirical evidence supporting a campus therapy dog by explaining the therapy dog's effect on nursing student stress. METHODS: The research used an embedded mixed-methods design. Introductory-level students interacted with a therapy dog on designated days. They measured stress using a smartphone application and Cohen's Perceived Stress Scale. Focus group discussion and program graduate surveys provided qualitative data explaining quantitative results. RESULTS: Results supported use of a campus therapy dog to decrease nursing student stress. CONCLUSIONS: The therapy dog's regular presence on campus may have improved student outcomes by decreasing stress and improving focus.

The Best Medicine: Personal Pets and Therapy Animals in the Hospital Setting.

Companion animals can have a positive impact on people's health and well-being. Personal pet visitation and animal-assisted interventions (AAIs) can benefit patients' pain, blood pressure, stress, depression, and anxiety, as well as increasing mobility and socialization with staff and families. Implementing personal pet visitation and/or AAI programs requires the involvement of stakeholders from multiple disciplines. AAI is generally well received by staff. Animal presence in the intensive care unit carries few risks for humans and animals but is not risk free. Programs should be designed to minimize these risks. Effective planning can create programs that support patient-centered and family-centered care.