Effects of Relaxation-Focused Nursing Program in Women with Ovarian Cancer: A Randomized Controlled Trial

Background: Surgical treatment is a major cause of hospitalization in ovarian cancer. In this process, physical problems, such as pain and changes in respiratory functions, and psychological problems, such as anxiety and stress, may develop.Aim: This study aims to investigate the effects of the Relaxation-Focused Nursing Program on pain, anxiety, lung volume, level of knowledge, and nursing care satisfaction in ovarian cancer surgery. Method: A randomized controlled trial in which participants were randomly assigned to either the experimental (preoperative relaxation exercises and education; n = 24) or control (usual nursing care; n = 22) groups. The intervention consisted of practicing four sessions of relaxation exercises and education in the hospital for two days before surgery. Data were collected using the Trait and State Anxiety Inventory, Surgical Information Form, and Perioperative Assessment Form. The results were analyzed using the Friedman and Wilcoxon tests.Results: The findings showed significant reductions in pain ( p = .045) and anxiety scores ( p < .001). The level of knowledge means scores were higher in the experimental group, but there was no significant difference between mean scores of spirometer volume and care satisfaction.Conclusions: The program was more effective than usual nursing care in preoperative anxiety, pain, and level of knowledge. Although there was no difference between the care satisfaction scores of the patients, the reasons for care satisfaction were different in the program. Developing and implementing care that combines stress reduction interventions and preoperative education can improve the preoperative outcomes of patients.