Mindfulness-Based Interventions in Pediatric Surgical Nursing: A Review of Evidence and Practice
Kristen Butler
Journal of Pediatric Surgical Nursing April 24, 2026 DOI: 10.1177/23320249261443494 (opens in new tab)
Study at a glance
AI-extracted from the abstract| Characteristics | Literature review Peer reviewed |
|---|---|
| Interventions | Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy Acceptance and Commitment Therapy |
| Topics | Meditation |
| Key findings | The review concludes that mindfulness-based interventions improve psychological well-being, coping, and resilience among nurses and may reduce secondary traumatic stress, while also benefiting pediatric patients and families through reduced anxiety and pain. The authors note that pediatric-specific research is limited and call for studies of long-term and organizational outcomes. |
Abstract
Pediatric surgical nursing is characterized by high clinical acuity, emotional intensity, and significant occupational stressors that contribute to burnout, compassion fatigue, and workforce challenges. Mindfulness-based interventions (MBIs), including Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction, Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy, and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, have demonstrated effectiveness in reducing stress, anxiety, depression, and burnout across healthcare settings. Grounded in Lazarus and Folkman's Transactional Model of Stress and Coping and aligned with Jean Watson's Theory of Human Caring, mindfulness supports resilience, emotional regulation, and holistic, person-centered care. Evidence synthesized in this literature review indicates that MBIs improve psychological well-being among nurses, enhancing coping and resilience, and may reduce secondary traumatic stress. Additionally, mindfulness interventions have demonstrated benefits for pediatric patients and family members, including reductions in anxiety and pain. Although the research specific to pediatric settings is limited, the implementation of abbreviated MBIs shows promise for feasibility in inpatient environments. Future research should evaluate long-term outcomes and organizational impact. Expanding implementation of MBIs within pediatric surgical nursing may support clinician well-being, family-centered care, and improved healthcare outcomes.
Comparable studies
Other narrative reviews on meditation, most cited first.
| Study | Year | Design | Participants |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mindfulness training as a clinical intervention: A conceptual and empirical review. Clinical populations | 2003 | Review | |
| Mindfulness: Theoretical Foundations and Evidence for its Salutary Effects | 2007 | Review | |
| Mindfulness Interventions | 2016 | Review | |
| Mind the Hype: A Critical Evaluation and Prescriptive Agenda for Research on Mindfulness and Meditation | 2017 | Review | |
| Mindfulness and acceptance: expanding the cognitive-behavioral tradition | 2005 | Review |
Citations in the library
Cites 7
- Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy in Clinical Practice: A Systematic Review of Neurocognitive Outcomes and Applications for Mental Health and Well-Being. Journal of Clinical Medicine March 3, 2025
- The effect of a mindfulness-based intervention on stress overload, depression, and mindfulness among nurses: A randomized controlled trial. Worldviews on Evidence-Based Nursing February 1, 2024
- Mindfulness and self-care in healthcare professionals: A qualitative metasynthesis Archives of Psychiatric Nursing November 19, 2025
- Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction Program to Improve Well-Being and Health in Healthcare Professionals. Journal of Clinical Medicine October 28, 2025
- Effectiveness of Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction (MBSR) Interventions on Mindfulness and Stress Symptoms for Cancer Patients: A Quantitative Assessment OBM Integrative and Complementary Medicine March 13, 2024
and 2 more in the library