Effect of progressive muscle relaxation technique on anxiety and sleep quality among hemodialysis patients

Abstract

Background: Patients on hemodialysis suffer from a variety of stressors and psychological problems as sleep disorders and anxiety. Progressive muscle relaxation is one of nursing modalities that can be applied to patients undergoing hemodialysis to decrease these problems. Aim: Evaluate the effect of progressive muscle relaxation technique on anxiety and sleep quality among hemodialysis patients. Research design: The aim of this study was achieved through utilizing a pre-posttest quasi-experimental research design. Sample: 60 adult patients with chronic renal failure who were receiving hemodialysis at the Minia University Hospital for Urology and Nephrology were chosen as a purposeful sample. Tools: Structured Interview Questionnaire Sheet, Beck Anxiety Inventory and Pittsburg Sleeping Quality Index were utilized in this research. Results: The global mean score of anxiety and sleep quality levels reduced immediately and post implementing the training program. Statistical significant positive correlation was observed between the global sleep quality and anxiety scores at the pre, immediate and post training program. Conclusion: Progressive muscle relaxation technique is an efficient method to mitigate anxiety and enhance quality of sleep for patients receiving hemodialysis. Recommendation: A training program should be applied for nephrology nurses to equip them with adequate knowledge and skills regarding how to integrate progressive muscle relaxation technique in their daily care for relieving the psychological consequences and reliance on pharmacological treatments.