The Influence Of Benson Relaxation Techniques On The Level Of Anxiety In Patients With Cataract Pre Operations
Introduction
Cataracts are a common condition characterized by a progressive decrease in the clarity of the eye lens, affecting millions of people worldwide. While surgery is a common management step to overcome this problem, the process before surgery often causes significant anxiety for patients. One method that can help reduce this anxiety is Benson's relaxation technique, a combination of relaxation exercises with spiritual beliefs or adopted beliefs that can help patients feel calmer before undergoing medical procedures. This study aims to investigate the effect of Benson relaxation techniques on anxiety levels in patients preoperative cataract.
Background
Cataracts are a leading cause of vision loss in older adults, and surgery is often the only effective treatment option. However, the process before surgery can be a source of significant anxiety for patients, which can have negative consequences on their physical and emotional well-being. Anxiety can lead to increased heart rate, blood pressure, and stress hormones, making it more challenging for patients to recover from surgery. Therefore, it is essential to explore effective methods to reduce anxiety in patients preoperative cataract.
Methodology
This study employed a quasi-experimental design involving 96 respondents, divided into two groups: a control group and an intervention group. The control group consisted of 48 patients who did not receive any relaxation intervention, while the intervention group consisted of 48 patients who received Benson relaxation techniques. The study used the Wilcoxon test and MANN Whitney U test to analyze the data.
Results
The results of this study showed that in the control group, the majority of patients experienced a mild anxiety level (92%) before intervention, but after the intervention, their anxiety level was significantly reduced, with 58.3% of patients no longer feeling anxious. On the other hand, in the intervention group, 79.2% of patients experienced mild anxiety before the relaxation technique was applied, and after intervention, 66.7% of patients felt a decrease in anxiety levels.
Further analysis using the Wilcoxon test showed a significant difference between the average value of pretest and posttest anxiety in the control group (Z = -5,247, p = 0,000) and the intervention group (Z = -5,518, p = 0,000). This indicates that Benson's relaxation techniques are effective in reducing the patient's anxiety level. Additionally, the MANN Whitney U test results also indicate a significant difference between the two groups (U = -2,574; p = 0.01), which means relaxation intervention has a positive effect on the reduction of patient anxiety.
Discussion
The findings of this study provide valuable insights on the importance of applying relaxation techniques in the medical context, especially for patients who will undergo cataract surgery. By applying Benson relaxation techniques as an independent intervention by nurses, patients are expected to be able to overcome their anxiety more effectively. Reducing anxiety before surgery does not only affect patient comfort but can also contribute to better surgery and faster recovery. Therefore, it is essential for medical personnel to consider a holistic approach that includes mental and emotional health of patients in their care.
Conclusion
In conclusion, this study demonstrates the effectiveness of Benson relaxation techniques in reducing anxiety levels in patients preoperative cataract. The results of this study provide valuable insights on the importance of applying relaxation techniques in the medical context and highlight the need for medical personnel to consider a holistic approach that includes mental and emotional health of patients in their care. By incorporating relaxation techniques into their practice, nurses and other healthcare professionals can play a crucial role in reducing anxiety and improving patient outcomes.
Recommendations
Based on the findings of this study, the following recommendations are made:
- Incorporate relaxation techniques into nursing practice: Nurses and other healthcare professionals should consider incorporating relaxation techniques into their practice to help reduce anxiety in patients preoperative cataract.
- Provide education on relaxation techniques: Patients should be educated on relaxation techniques, such as Benson relaxation techniques, to help them manage their anxiety before surgery.
- Develop a holistic approach to patient care: Medical personnel should consider a holistic approach that includes mental and emotional health of patients in their care to improve patient outcomes.
- Conduct further research: Further research is needed to explore the effectiveness of relaxation techniques in reducing anxiety in patients preoperative cataract and to identify the most effective relaxation techniques for this population.
Limitations
This study has several limitations, including:
- Small sample size: The sample size of this study was relatively small, which may limit the generalizability of the findings.
- Limited generalizability: The findings of this study may not be generalizable to other populations, such as patients with other types of surgery.
- Limited control over variables: The study design did not allow for control over variables that may have influenced the results, such as patient demographics and medical history.
Future Directions
Future studies should aim to:
- Recruit a larger sample size: Future studies should aim to recruit a larger sample size to improve the generalizability of the findings.
- Explore the effectiveness of other relaxation techniques: Future studies should explore the effectiveness of other relaxation techniques, such as mindfulness-based stress reduction, in reducing anxiety in patients preoperative cataract.
- Identify the most effective relaxation techniques: Future studies should aim to identify the most effective relaxation techniques for patients preoperative cataract.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Benson Relaxation Techniques and Anxiety in Patients with Cataract Pre-Operations =============================================================================================
Q: What is Benson relaxation technique?
A: Benson relaxation technique is a combination of relaxation exercises with spiritual beliefs or adopted beliefs that can help patients feel calmer before undergoing medical procedures.
Q: How does Benson relaxation technique work?
A: Benson relaxation technique works by reducing the body's stress response, which can help to decrease anxiety levels. It involves a series of relaxation exercises, such as deep breathing, progressive muscle relaxation, and visualization, that can help to calm the mind and body.
Q: What are the benefits of using Benson relaxation technique in patients with cataract pre-operations?
A: The benefits of using Benson relaxation technique in patients with cataract pre-operations include reduced anxiety levels, improved patient comfort, and faster recovery. By reducing anxiety, patients are less likely to experience complications during surgery and are more likely to have a positive outcome.
Q: Can Benson relaxation technique be used in conjunction with other treatments?
A: Yes, Benson relaxation technique can be used in conjunction with other treatments, such as medication and surgery. In fact, studies have shown that combining Benson relaxation technique with other treatments can lead to improved outcomes and reduced anxiety levels.
Q: How can healthcare professionals incorporate Benson relaxation technique into their practice?
A: Healthcare professionals can incorporate Benson relaxation technique into their practice by providing education on relaxation techniques, offering relaxation sessions, and encouraging patients to practice relaxation techniques at home.
Q: What are some common misconceptions about Benson relaxation technique?
A: Some common misconceptions about Benson relaxation technique include:
- It is only for patients with anxiety disorders.
- It is only for patients undergoing surgery.
- It is only for patients who are calm and relaxed.
- It is only for patients who are spiritual or have a strong faith.
Q: Can Benson relaxation technique be used in patients with other medical conditions?
A: Yes, Benson relaxation technique can be used in patients with other medical conditions, such as heart disease, diabetes, and chronic pain. In fact, studies have shown that Benson relaxation technique can be effective in reducing anxiety and improving outcomes in patients with a variety of medical conditions.
Q: How can patients get started with Benson relaxation technique?
A: Patients can get started with Benson relaxation technique by:
- Talking to their healthcare provider about relaxation techniques.
- Practicing relaxation exercises, such as deep breathing and progressive muscle relaxation.
- Seeking out relaxation sessions or classes.
- Reading books or online resources about relaxation techniques.
Q: What are some resources for patients who want to learn more about Benson relaxation technique?
A: Some resources for patients who want to learn more about Benson relaxation technique include:
- Books: "The Relaxation Response" by Herbert Benson, "Mindfulness: A Practical Guide to Finding Peace in a Frantic World" by Mark Williams and Danny Penman.
- Online resources: American Psychological Association, National Institute of Mental Health, Mayo Clinic.
- Classes or workshops: Local yoga studios, community centers, or hospitals may offer classes or workshops on relaxation techniques.
- Healthcare providers: Patients can talk to their healthcare provider about relaxation techniques and get recommendations for resources.