2051.1-25: Take a Breath: Implementation of Box Breathing as an Evidenced-Based Intervention to Reduce PRN Anxiolytic Use for Adults in an Inpatient Psychiatric Setting 

This presentation explores the implementation of Box Breathing, an evidence-based mindfulness technique, to reduce PRN anxiolytic use in an inpatient psychiatric unit. Learn how this non-pharmacological intervention empowers nurses, fosters patient self-regulation, and enhances care, ultimately improving anxiety management and promoting recovery in psychiatric settings.

Presenter:  Kateleen Collins, BSN, RN

Disclosures:  The APNA planners and faculty have no relevant financial relationships to disclose. Off-label uses will not be discussed during this presentation.

Session Length:  15 minutes

Target Audience:  RN, APRN

Learning Outcome:
Upon completion of this presentation, the participant will be able to:

• Define the box breathing intervention.

Key Takeaway(s): 

• Box breathing is a simple, structured technique that promotes automatic regulation and can be easily taught and practiced in psychiatric settings.
• Implementation of box breathing in inpatient psychiatric settings can support decreased PRN anxiolytic use and promote patient empowerment in managing emotional distress.

Keywords:  Breathing Techniques, Anxiety, Reduced Medication Use, Reduced Pharmacological Interventions

Nursing Continuing Professional Development:
0.25 contact hours.  * In order to receive contact hours, you must: Listen to the entire presentation, complete the reflection activity, evaluation, and honor statement before the expiration date. Once all steps are successfully completed, a certificate will be generated online and available for you to print immediately. Contact hours cannot be awarded unless all required components are completed. 

The American Psychiatric Nurses Association is accredited as a provider of nursing continuing professional development by the American Nurses Credentialing Center’s Commission on Accreditation.

Release Date:  December 15, 2025
Access to this course will end:  December 1, 2028

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