(57) Fostering Resilience Through Peer Support: A Nurse-Led Model in Pediatric Hematology/Oncology/Stem Cell Transplant

Title: Fostering Resilience Through Peer Support: A Nurse-Led Model in Pediatric Hematology/Oncology/Stem Cell Transplant

Abstract : Basis of Inquiry: Compassion fatigue and burnout are significant concerns for healthcare staff in hematology/oncology and stem cell transplant (SCT) settings. Nurses and multidisciplinary team members navigate unique stressors, including complex acute care, grief, ethical dilemmas, and challenges maintaining therapeutic relationships with patients and families. Recognizing the need for structured support, the Hematology/ Oncology/Stem Cell Transplant Advancing Resiliency Team (HART) was established in 2019 as a nurse-led, peer-to-peer support program.

Purpose/

Objective: HART’s primary goal is to provide on-site, confidential support to staff through one-on-one and group interactions, integrative therapies, and targeted interventions for work-related, patient-care based, or personal concerns. The program seeks to cultivate a healthier workplace culture, strengthen teamwork, boost morale, enhance individual well-being, and build staff resilience.

Methods: HART serves all staff on the hematology/oncology and SCT units at a leading urban independent pediatric academic center. Nurse coaches are available one to three days per week, providing support across both day and night shifts. Using REDCap, confidential, de-identified data from coach interactions and annual staff surveys are collected. Encounters are categorized into work-related concerns, patient care, personal considerations, and integrative therapies.

Findings or Outcomes: Since its inception, HART coaches have completed 524 shifts, engaging in 6,917 unique staff interactions. Integrative therapies emerged as the most frequently utilized interventions, including over 1,000 Reiki sessions, 2,400 massages, and 2,400 aromatherapy offerings. Furthermore, HART coaches have carried out more than 500 walk round encounters and 800 tea-time sessions as part of the program.

Qualitative feedback highlights the value staff place on having a trusted, approachable support system. Staff report feeling more supported, which positively impacts their well-being and enhances their ability to provide high-quality patient care. The HART program demonstrates that nurse-led peer support is feasible and sustainable, serving as a model for other high-stress healthcare environments.