Benson relaxation technique to reduce anxiety in preoperative patient in hospital setting

Abstract

A fracture is a medical condition characterized by a partial or complete loss of bone continuity, which is determined by the specific type and mechanism of the injury. Management strategies for fractures are generally categorized as either conservative or operative. Typically, patients scheduled for surgical intervention experience physiological and psychological hyperarousal, including tachycardia (a rapid heartbeat), elevated blood pressure, tachypnea (rapid, shallow breathing), diaphoresis (excessive sweating), muscle tension, and a surge in stress hormones such as adrenaline and cortisol. Collectively, these manifestations signify preoperative anxiety. To mitigate this distress, the Benson relaxation technique serves as a highly effective, non-pharmacological nursing intervention. This case study aimed to evaluate the application of the Benson relaxation technique in reducing preoperative anxiety levels in a patient presenting with distal radius and ulna fractures in the Cempaka I Ward at Temanggung District Hospital. The research methodology employed a comprehensive case study design. Data collection was carried out through direct clinical observation, a thorough head-to-toe physical assessment, semi-structured interviews with the patient and family, and secondary data extraction from the hospital's Electronic Medical Record (E-RM) system. The study focused on a single preoperative fracture patient experiencing acute anxiety. The Benson relaxation intervention was administered once daily over three consecutive days.

Keywords: Anxiety, Benson relaxation technique, clinical outcomes, perioperative nursing, surgery