Mindfulness Meditation Effects on Sleep, Stress, and Physiological Biomarkers in Hemodialysis Patients: A Randomized Controlled Trial

Background Patients with end-stage renal disease (ESRD) face significant physical and psychological challenges, highlighting the need for effective supportive interventions. Mindfulness meditation (MM) has emerged as a promising intervention for these patients. Objective This study examines the effects of MM on the quality of sleep, perceived stress, and levels of serum cortisol and C-reactive protein in ESRD patients undergoing hemodialysis. Methods A repeated measures design was employed, utilizing data collected from 56 patients with ESRD undergoing hemodialysis at Jahra Hospital. The intervention included a 30-min session of mindfulness techniques conducted during hemodialysis. Variables measured included quality of sleep, perceived stress, and levels of selected biomarkers. The study was registered under ClinicalTrials.gov. Results The analysis showed that patients in the intervention group had a significantly lower level of C-reactive protein at post-intervention. The intervention also contributed to a decreased level of perceived stress and serum cortisol, and improved quality of sleep at both measurement time points. Analysis of variance (within and between-subject) results demonstrated that the trial group had decreased subjective stress, serum cortisol level, C-reactive protein level, and sleep quality index over time, as opposed to the control group. Conclusion This study suggests that integrating psychological interventions, such as MM, into hemodialysis sessions may benefit patients. The inclusion of a liaison psychological counselor is recommended for consideration by decision-makers.