The effect of Guided imagery on perioperative anxiety in hospitalized adult patients: A systematic review of randomized controlled trials

Objective

Guided imagery is a relaxation technique that uses mental visualization to help individuals relax and focus their minds. This systematic review examines the effect of guided imagery on perioperative anxiety in hospitalized adult patients. The aim is to provide a comprehensive analysis of the existing evidence on the efficacy of guided imagery as an intervention for reducing perioperative anxiety.

Methods

A systematic search was conducted on databases including Web of Science, PubMed, Scopus, and PsycINFO. After screening titles and abstracts, full-text articles were assessed for eligibility. The selected studies were analyzed for their findings related to the effect of guided imagery on perioperative anxiety in adult patients.

Results

Nine studies met the inclusion criteria and provided sufficient data for analysis. The majority of the included studies reported a statistically significant reduction in perioperative anxiety following guided imagery interventions. The variations in intervention protocols, such as the content, duration, and frequency of guided imagery, were observed across the studies. Patient satisfaction and acceptance of guided imagery interventions were generally high.

Conclusion

The findings of this systematic review suggest that guided imagery is an effective intervention for reducing perioperative anxiety in hospitalized adult patients. Despite the limitations of small sample sizes and variability in measurement tools, the consistent positive results and high patient satisfaction indicate the potential benefits of incorporating guided imagery into perioperative care protocols. More comprehensive research with bigger samples and standardized tools is essential for guiding imagery integration in clinical practice.