Effects of the healing beats application on anxiety, stress, and well-being in hemodialysis patients in Korea: a randomized controlled trial

Purpose: This study examined the effects of Healing Beats on anxiety, stress, and well-being in hemodialysis patients, exploring its potential as an intervention to improve these outcomes. Methods: A randomized controlled trial included 65 hemodialysis patients with chronic kidney disease, divided into the Healing Beats group (HBG, 21 participants), preferred music group (PMG, 22 participants), and control group (CG, 22 participants). The HBG was exposed to music synchronized with their heartbeats during each dialysis session, while the PMG listened to music of their own selection. The CG received no music intervention. State anxiety, subjective stress, stress indices, and well-being were assessed before and after the experimental intervention. Results: The application of Healing Beats had a positive effect on the stress index of hemodialysis patients, with statistically significant differences between the three groups (F = 4.60, p < .001). However, no significant differences were observed in terms of anxiety and well-being across the groups after the intervention. Conclusion: Although hemodialysis patients have notably high stress levels, the application of Healing Beats and preferred music demonstrated limitations in alleviating anxiety and enhancing well-being. Although Healing Beats proved effective in reducing the stress index, it did not yield significant improvements in subjective stress, anxiety, or well-being. Further research is required to confirm these findings and explore potential refinements in the intervention.