Effects of mindfulness-based stress reduction on ICU nurses' resilience and well-being.
Merve Bat Tonkuş, Hülya Bilgin
Intensive & critical care nursing November 23, 2025 DOI: 10.1016/j.iccn.2025.104258 (opens in new tab)
Study at a glance
AI-extracted from the abstract| Characteristics | Randomized controlled trial Peer reviewed |
|---|---|
| Sample size | 44 |
| Population | Intensive care unit nurses |
| Intervention | Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction (MBSR) |
| Duration | 8-week intervention |
| Topics | Meditation |
| Keywords | Intensive care nurse Mindfulness-based stress reduction Psychological resilience 8-week online program Intervention Powerful tool Inner strength Enhanced coping skills Emotional regulation Overall well-being Supportive work environment Supporting the well-being Critical care professionals |
| Key findings | The 8-week online MBSR program significantly improved psychological resilience scores among ICU nurses compared to the control group. |
Abstract
This study investigated the effects of a Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction (MBSR) on the resilience and well-being of intensive care unit (ICU) nurses. This randomized study was conducted with a control group design and repeated measures. A total of 44 nurses participated in the study, (22 intervention and 22 control groups). Data were collected using an information form and scales measuring psychological resilience and psychological well-being. The intervention group participated in an 8-week online MBSR program. Each session lasted 90 min. The control group received a minimal intervention consisting of a single 90-minute information session on mindfulness. The MBSR intervention improved the nurses' resilience scores (p < 0.05). Comparison of psychological well-being scores revealed significant differences in the intervention group by time and in the control group. MBSR is a useful intervention to improve the psychological resilience and well-being of intensive care nurses. It is recommended to perform MBSR at regular intervals to improve the quality of ICU care and reduce the risk of professional burnout by strengthening the coping skills of ICU nurses. MBSR increases ICU nurses' resilience and well-being by reducing stress, improving emotional regulation, and promoting a supportive work environment, which has significant clinical potential for critical care.