Nursing Deans on Self-Care: The Case for a Trauma-Informed Approach

Background: The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic turned the world upside down and highlighted multiple sources of trauma inherent in the role of dean or director of an academic nursing unit. Method: Experienced nursing deans (n = 3) identify common sources of trauma for nursing deans and directors, including a case example of traumatizing events and circumstances triggered by the pandemic. The concept of trauma-informed self-care is in-troduced and explored as an approach to achieving the goal of resilience and posttraumatic growth. Results: Based on the Trauma-Informed Self-Care Measure-Revised, specific strategies for nursing deans and directors are recommend-ed in three broad categories: (1) use of organizational re-sources; (2) observance of organizational protocols for employee support; and (3) dedication to stress manage-ment and work-life balance activities. Conclusion: To be a positive role model for faculty, staff, and students, nursing deans and directors would benefit from taking a trauma -informed approach to caring for themselves and others. [J Nurs Educ. 2023;62(8):450-453.]