Compassion meditation delivered by chaplains for patients undergoing stem cell transplantation

Randomized Pilot Study of Chaplain-Delivered Compassion Meditation for Patients Receiving Stem Cell Transplantation

Not applicable Interventional Emory University · NCT06328699

This study tests whether compassion meditation sessions led by chaplains can help patients feel better during their stem cell transplant recovery compared to regular chaplain visits.

Quick facts

PhaseNot applicable
Study typeInterventional
Enrollment50 (estimated)
Ages18 Years and up
SexAll
SponsorEmory University Academic / other
Locations1 site (Atlanta, Georgia)
Trial IDNCT06328699 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This clinical trial evaluates the feasibility and acceptability of compassion meditation sessions led by hospital chaplains for patients receiving stem cell transplantation. Patients are randomly assigned to either receive chaplain-led sessions twice a week for two weeks or standard chaplain consultations upon request. The study aims to assess the impact of these sessions on patients' spiritual care and overall well-being. Follow-up assessments will occur at 80-100 days and 6 months post-treatment to evaluate outcomes.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates are adults over 18 years old who are within 6 weeks of a scheduled hematopoietic stem cell transplant and can speak and read English.

Not a fit: Patients who are cognitively impaired, on a ventilator, or in isolation due to specific precautions may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this approach could enhance the spiritual care and emotional well-being of patients undergoing stem cell transplantation.

How similar studies have performed: While the specific approach of chaplain-delivered compassion meditation is novel, existing research indicates that spiritual care interventions can positively impact patient outcomes.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* PATIENT: Within 6 weeks of scheduled hematopoietic stem cell transplant (HSCT)
* PATIENT: \> 18 years of age
* PATIENT: Speak and read English
* CHAPLAIN: Emory Healthcare chaplain

Exclusion Criteria:

* PATIENT: Patients will be excluded if they are cognitively impaired, on a ventilator, or are in a room requiring enteric precautions or airborne precautions (e.g., use of an N-95 mask requiring fit-testing) to enter
* CHAPLAIN: There will be no exclusion criteria and no consequence to the chaplains for refusing to volunteer

Where this trial is running

Atlanta, Georgia

Study contacts

How to participate

  1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
  2. Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
  3. Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.
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Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.