The Implementation of Spiritual Mindfulness Combined with Self-Regulation to Reduce Anxiety, Respiratory Rate, and Oxygen Saturation Levels in Patients in the Intensive Care Unit

Abstract

Background: Patients admitted to intensive care units (ICU/ICCU/HCU) often experience high levels of anxiety due to their critical condition, the presence of complex medical equipment, constant monitor alarms, and limited communication with family members. If left untreated, anxiety may affect physiological stability, including respiratory rate and oxygen saturation. Therefore, effective non-pharmacological interventions are needed to address both psychological and physiological responses. Objective: To determine the effect of implementing spiritual mindfulness combined with self-regulation on anxiety levels, respiratory rate, and oxygen saturation. Methods: This study used a pre-experimental design with a one-group pretest-posttest approach. The sample consisted of 15 patients who met the inclusion criteria. Data were collected through direct observation and questionnaires. Statistical analysis was performed using the Paired t-test and Wilcoxon Signed Rank Test. Results: The findings showed a significant reduction in anxiety levels (p = 0.000; effect size = 12.63), a significant decrease in respiratory rate (p = 0.000; effect size = 2.171), and a statistically significant change in oxygen saturation (p = 0.001; effect size = 0.547) after the intervention of spiritual mindfulness combined with self-regulation was administered for three consecutive days. Conclusion: The implementation of spiritual mindfulness combined with self-regulation was proven effective in reducing anxiety levels and helping stabilize patients’ vital signs in the intensive care unit. This intervention may be applied as a complementary therapy in intensive care nursing practice.