The effect of mindfulness and creative imagery on perceptions and beliefs in oncology patients

Objective: This study was conducted as a descriptive study to evaluate the effects of conscious awareness and creative imagination on perceptions and beliefs about life in oncology patients. Method: The research was conducted with 60 oncology patients who applied to the Health Sciences University Şişli Hamidiye Etfal Training and Research Hospital Sarıyer Campus Adult Chemotherapy Unit between February and April 2024. The sample of the study consists of 30 control group patients and 30 case group patients determined by simple randomization. In our study, the Patient Diagnosis Form, Conscious Awareness Scale (BIPÖ), World Health Organization Quality of Life Scale (WHOQLBREF), Awareness Working Chart and awareness training videos were used. Results: There was no statistical difference between the distribution of personal characteristics of both groups participating in the study, except age. The average age of the case group was statistically significantly lower than the control group (p = 0.037). There was no statistical difference between the distribution of treatment characteristics of both groups included in the study. In the last evaluation of the Conscious Awareness Scale of the case group, p=0.008 was found to be significant. Accordingly, an increase in the conscious awareness level of the case group was detected. As a result of the awareness studies conducted by the case group for 7 days, an increase was detected in the physical size score with p=0.044 according to the World Health Organization Quality of Life Scale. Conclusion: According to our research, awareness studies should be continued for a longer period of time in order to observe an increase in the quality of life. At the same time, it is recommended that awareness studies be conducted mostly based on observation with the younger patient group and more interactive with the older patient group.