The effects of sensory stimulations on sleep deprivation symptoms in patients with heart diseases

Abstract

Introduction: Sleep is one of the human's basic needs. Sleep deprivation has several side effects on human's mind and body. Given the importance of sleep for patients hospitalized in coronary care units, meeting this basic need is necessary. The objective of this study was to determine the effect of sensory stimulations on sleep deprivation symptoms in patients hospitalized in coronary care units of selected hospital in Isfahan University of Medical Science.

Methods: In a quasi experimental research, 90 patients were selected by convenient sampling method. They were divided into 3 groups of 30 patients and received either oath back massage, sound replacement or no intervention. A questionnaire was used to gather data. All three groups were interviewed at the beginning of the research and the questionnaire was completed in admission. In the massage group, massage was administrated for two days, each day for two times. In sound replacement group, cassette tape was listened two times a day for two days. The questionnaire was completed once more at the end of the first 48 hours of admission. The research data were analyzed by inferential and descriptive statistical methods through SPSS software.

Results: The research findings showed a significant statistical difference in the mean scores of anxiety and fatigue after 48 hours among the three groups. Also, there was a significant difference between the mean score of anxiety at the time of admission and the mean score of anxiety after 48 hours.

Conclusion: Performing back massage and sound replacement for the patients hospitalized in coronary care units are effective methods to reduce anxiety and fatigue in patients.