Effect of Practicing Meditation Techniques on Vital Signs and Mindfulness Levels among Adolescents with Chronic Kidney Disease Undergoing Hemodialysis
Keywords:
meditation, Vital Signs, Adolescents with Chronic, Kidney Disease, HemodialysisAbstract
Background: Adolescents with chronic kidney disease undergoing hemodialysis experience significant physiological instability and psychological distress, including elevated anxiety, depression, blood pressure, and pulse rate. Given the risks of pharmacological interventions in renal impairment, safe non-pharmacological approaches are essential. Aim: This study aimed to assess the effects of a regular meditation exercise on vital signs and mindfulness levels in this vulnerable population. Methodology: A quasi-experimental research design, the study was conducted in three hemodialysis units located in the Karbala Holy Governorate, Iraq, between the periods of April 14th and August 20th, 2025. A non-probability purposive sample of forty-four patients was selected, the control group, which consists of twenty-two patients, is not subjected to the meditation program, just routine care, while twenty-two patients in the study group are subjected to the practice of meditation techniques. Results: The mindfulness meditation intervention significantly improved cardiorespiratory parameters (heart rate and respiration rate) and substantially elevated mindfulness levels in adolescents undergoing hemodialysis. Conclusion: The study determined that the structured meditation intervention significantly elevated mindfulness levels and markedly improved specific physiological parameters, particularly heart and respiration rates, in adolescents undergoing hemodialysis. Recommendations: The application of meditation techniques in hospitals as a complementary nursing intervention for adolescents suffering from various chronic illnesses. Continuous training and workshops should be provided for nurses and healthcare staff working in hemodialysis units on the principles and techniques of meditation and mindfulness practices.
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