Effectiveness of Mindfulness-Based Interventions in Lowering Acute Anxiety in Hemodialysis Patients: A Literature Review

Abstract

Acute anxiety is a psychological response that often arises in patients with chronic illnesses or invasive procedures and can affect physiological stability and emotional comfort. Mindfulness as a non-pharmacological intervention is increasingly used in nursing practice because of its potential to reduce psychological distress. This study aims to assess the effectiveness of mindfulness-based interventions in reducing acute anxiety through a literature review. The literature review method was used by analyzing five articles published in the Scopus Q1 indexed journal that evaluated mindfulness interventions in patients with acute anxiety or distress related to medical conditions. Articles were selected based on the design of the intervention, the application of mindfulness (including spiritual forms), and the reporting of outcomes related to anxiety, stress, or coping. Data synthesis is done narratively. The results showed that all articles reported a decrease in anxiety or stress after the intervention. Two studies found a significant reduction in anxiety in hemodialysis patients after mindfulness practice and dhikr as spiritual mindfulness, while the other study showed an increase in adaptive coping, a decrease in stress, and an increase in spiritual well-being. The consistency of these results reinforces the effectiveness of mindfulness in overcoming acute anxiety