Promoting Psychological Well-Being Through an Evidence-Based Mindfulness Training Program

Effects of a Mindfulness Intervention on Hospitalized Patients With Hematologic Malignancies and Their Caregivers

OBJECTIVES

To examine the effects of a mind-body intervention on the psychological distress of hospitalized patients with hematologic malignancies and their caregivers.

SAMPLE & SETTING

29 patients with hematologic malignancies and 5 caregivers were recruited from the bone marrow transplantation unit at Barnes-Jewish Hospital in St. Louis, Missouri.

METHODS & VARIABLES

After completing the Rotterdam Symptom Checklist (RSCL) to rate their levels of psychological and physiologic distress and quality of life, participants were taught a mindfulness activity. Two weeks postintervention, participants completed the RSCL again, reported how often they practiced the activity, and answered qualitative questions regarding their experience.

RESULTS

Participants reported increased relaxation and improved sleep and showed interest in practicing mindfulness as a part of their treatment plan.

IMPLICATIONS FOR NURSING

Nurses can help to alleviate symptoms of distress in patients with hematologic malignancies by integrating education on how to perform short and simple mindfulness activities into the care plan.