The effection pain and anxiety of a breathing exercise applied following laparoscopic cholecystectomy: A randomized controlled study

Background

Several methods are employed for overcoming pain and anxiety that are frequently experienced in the postoperative period. This study was planned to determine the effect of a breathing exercise on patient pain and anxiety after laparoscopic cholecystectomy.

Materials and methods

The sample determined using power analysis in this randomized, controlled, semi-experimental research performed in two hospitals in the west of Turkey between January and November 2019 consisted of 74 individuals (37 experimental and 37 controls). An information form involving descriptive characteristics, a visual analog scale (VAS), and the State-Trait Anxiety Inventory (STAI I/II) were used for data collection. Descriptive statistical methods and parametric tests were employed in the data analysis.

Results

Pain and state and trait anxiety scores were significantly lower in the group receiving breathing exercises compared to the no exercise group (p < 0.05). No significant relationship was determined between pain and state anxiety levels (p > 0.05).

Conclusion

The breathing exercise applied following surgical intervention in this study exerted a positive effect on pain and anxiety. This finding suggested that nurses should apply the exercise in a standard and effective manner among their independent duties.