The Potential of Mindfulness in Oncology Nursing: A Systematic Review.

A systematic review of 12 studies (8 interventional) found that mindfulness-based programs, mostly derived from Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction (MBSR), are well-accepted by oncology nurses and associated with improvements in professional quality of life, resilience, stress management, sleep quality, and overall well-being. Interventions were delivered in person, via audio, or through mobile apps. Despite limited and heterogeneous evidence, the review suggests mindfulness is a promising approach to support oncology nurses' well-being and professional satisfaction.

Study at a glance

Abstract

Oncology nurses face multiple challenges that affect both themselves and their patients. Mindfulness, as a personality trait, can be cultivated through well-designed practices and may serve as an effective strategy for maintaining nurses' well-being. This systematic review aimed to evaluate the value and usefulness of mindfulness practice for oncology nurses. A systematic search was conducted in PubMed, Scopus, and Elsevier databases in September 2024 using the keywords: oncology nurses, haematology nurses, mindfulness, professional quality of life, compassion satisfaction, compassion fatigue, burnout, stress, resilience, and wellbeing. English-language studies published between 2010 and 2024 concerning the trait of mindfulness were included. Twelve studies met the inclusion criteria; eight were interventional and implemented mindfulness-based programs. Various assessment tools were used across studies. Interventions were delivered either in person, via audio materials, or through mobile applications. Most were based on Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction (MBSR) principles or other mindfulness approaches such as the Zentangle method. The intervention studies were generally well-accepted by oncology nurses and demonstrated positive outcomes. Most findings supported the benefits of developing and applying mindfulness in daily clinical practice. Reported improvements included professional quality of life, resilience, stress management, sleep quality, and overall physical and psychological well-being. Despite the limited number and heterogeneity of studies, the overall evidence highlights mindfulness as a promising and effective approach to enhance the well-being and professional satisfaction of oncology nurses.