Nursing Implications of Mindfulness-Informed Interventions for Stroke Survivors and Their Families

Abstract

The consequences of stroke can be devastating and include psychological distress, such as anxiety and depression, functional deficits, pain, and cognitive impairment. Symptoms are complex and impact not only the stroke survivor but may also be challenging for family caregivers. Studies have consistently demonstrated that mindfulness-informed interventions (MBI), such as mindfulness-based stress reduction and acceptance and self-compassion therapies, improve symptoms in a wide variety of clinical populations. However, research examining MBIs within the stroke population is in its infancy. Nurses, who have traditionally focused on holistic care delivery are in a unique position to incorporate MBIs throughout the stroke care continuum. In this topical review, we examine the literature related to the use of MBIs in stroke survivors and their family caregivers. We include a critical appraisal of existing literature, discuss nursing implications, and make recommendations for future research. Mindfulness-informed interventions are feasible and acceptable within the stroke population and may be an important complementary treatment to help stroke survivors and their families manage the consequences of stroke. We recommend further research to tailor MBI programs to the unique needs of stroke survivors and their family caregivers. In addition, nurses should consider opportunities to be trained in MBIs and incorporate these programs into their practice and research.

Nursing Science Advances in Poststroke Fatigue, Return to Work, Sleep Disorders, and Mindfulness Following Stroke

“…10 Although studies have consistently demonstrated that mindfulness-informed interventions (MII) can improve symptoms for many clinical populations, the research pertaining to MII remains in its infancy pertaining to stroke. 10 The core element of the mindfulness approach is the ability to pay attention to the unfolding experience nonjudgementally. 11 Results from another randomized control trial revealed that MII in poststroke recovery resulted in survivors with greater self-rated health status, hopefulness, and mental well-being compared to the control group, but this change was not maintained.…”

“…The aftermath of stroke can be overwhelming and create significant psychologic distress, such as anxiety, depression, functional, and cognitive impairments that can significantly affect the stroke survivor and the family caregiver. 10 Although studies have consistently demonstrated that mindfulness-informed interventions (MII) can improve symptoms for many clinical populations, the research pertaining to MII remains in its infancy pertaining to stroke. 10 The core element of the mindfulness approach is the ability to pay attention to the unfolding experience nonjudgementally.…”

“…10 Although studies have consistently demonstrated that mindfulness-informed interventions (MII) can improve symptoms for many clinical populations, the research pertaining to MII remains in its infancy pertaining to stroke. 10 The core element of the mindfulness approach is the ability to pay attention to the unfolding experience nonjudgementally. 11…”

“…14 Although the evidence supporting the use of MIIs for stroke survivors is still limited, findings suggest that it is a feasible intervention and may contribute to survivors' decreased emotional distress and fatigue, improved function, reduced spasticity, and enhanced cognition. 10 Moreover, nurses should consider becoming trained in mindfulness based interventions and incorporating them routinely in their practice and research.…”

A Social Media–Based Mindfulness Psycho-Behavioral Intervention (MCARE) for Patients With Acute Coronary Syndrome: Randomized Controlled Trial

“…The American Heart Association has recommended mindfulness-based intervention as a promising complementary approach to promoting psychological health and well-being for patients with cardiovascular disease [ 8 ]. Emerging evidence has proven its benefits in improving a wide range of psychological and physical outcomes [ 9 , 10 ], including among patients with ischemic heart disease [ 11 ], indicating its potential as an additional supplement to conventional cardiac care.…”