Evaluation of the stress reactive countermeasure effectiveness in workplace: a randomized, controlled, cross-over study

Abstract This protocol serves to examine the effectiveness of a workplace-based reactive stress countermeasure (e.g., an action or device intended to prevent or mitigate undesirable effects of acute stress). It’s designed specifically for the context where decrease of acute stress reaction is desired while preserving vigilance and avoiding sleepiness. The study adopts a cross-over, controlled design. The order of interventions is randomized and blinded to the data collector and data analyst. This approach ensures increased validity and reliability of research outcomes while minimizing the number of participants required. The protocol employs affordable state-of-the-art subjective indicators measured using questionnaires, as well as objective physiological indicators of arousal (heart rate, respiration rate, electrodermal activity, frontal EEG). Baseline stress levels are measured, followed by induced acute stress using the Maastricht Acute Stress Task, and subsequent sessions of either countermeasure or control. Data analysis includes descriptive, time series, and ANCOVA or general linear models approaches. The protocol is estimated to take approximately 2 to 2.5 hours for completion.