EFFECT OF ONLINE MINDFULNESS-BASED BRIEF INTERVENTION ON SLEEP QUALITY AMONG SHIFT-WORKING NURSES: A NARRATIVE REVIEW

Wuttipong Saisuwan

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.

Keywords


mindfulness-based intervention; online intervention; sleep quality; shift work; nurses; Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index; circadian rhythm; digital health

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References


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DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.46827/ejprs.v6i1.257

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