EFFECT OF ONLINE MINDFULNESS-BASED BRIEF INTERVENTION ON SLEEP QUALITY AMONG SHIFT-WORKING NURSES: A NARRATIVE REVIEW
European Journal of Physiotherapy and Rehabilitation Studies May 4, 2026 DOI: 10.46827/ejprs.v6i1.257 (opens in new tab)
Study at a glance
AI-extracted from the abstract| Characteristics | Narrative review Randomized Peer reviewed |
|---|---|
| Population | Shift-working nurses and shift workers |
| Intervention | Online mindfulness-based brief interventions |
| Measures | PSQI |
| Topics | Meditation |
| Key findings | The review concludes that online mindfulness-based brief interventions improve sleep quality in shift-working nurses, with evidence from randomized controlled trials and systematic reviews showing improved PSQI global scores, reduced insomnia severity, decreased pre-sleep arousal, and attenuated hyperarousal. Brief digital formats of 10 to 30 minutes per session are reported as effective and well-tolerated. |
Abstract
Background: Shift-working nurses face significant disruption to circadian rhythms and sleep architecture, resulting in high rates of shift work disorder (SWD) and impaired sleep quality. Online mindfulness-based brief interventions (MBIs) offer an accessible, scalable, and cost-effective approach to address these occupational sleep challenges. However, the evidence base remains heterogeneous and requires systematic synthesis.
Objectives: To review the current evidence on the effectiveness of online mindfulness-based brief interventions in improving sleep quality among shift-working nurses, and to examine proposed biological and psychological mechanisms.
Methods: A narrative review of peer-reviewed literature was conducted using PubMed, EMBASE, Scopus, CINAHL, and PsycINFO databases. Studies published from 2010 to 2024 reporting the effects of online or app-based mindfulness interventions on sleep outcomes in nurses or shift workers were included.
Results: Evidence from randomized controlled trials and systematic reviews demonstrates that online MBIs significantly improve PSQI global scores, reduce insomnia severity, decrease pre-sleep arousal, and attenuate hyperarousal in nurse populations. Brief digital formats (10-30 min/session) are effective and well-tolerated. Mechanistic pathways include modulation of the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis, autonomic nervous system regulation, and reduced cognitive hyperarousal.
Conclusions: Online mindfulness-based brief interventions are a promising, evidence-based strategy to improve sleep quality among shift-working nurses. Implementation considerations include session brevity, smartphone delivery, and integration with occupational health programs.