Effect of Guided Imagery on Patient Comfort, Vital Signs, Pain, Anxiety, and Satisfaction in Cancer Patients Undergoing Port Catheterization With Local Anesthesia: A Prospective Randomized Controlled Study.

BACKGROUND

Port catheter placement is usually an operation performed under local anesthesia. Being conscious during the interventions performed with local anesthesia can lead to anxiety and stress.

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this study was to determine the effect of guided imagery performed before and during the procedure on vital signs and comfort, pain, anxiety, and satisfaction levels in patients with cancer undergoing port catheterization with local anesthesia.

METHODS

A total of 80 patients were included in the study. Patients in the intervention group received standard treatment and nursing care, as well as a guided imagery intervention once before and once during the procedure. Patients in the control group received only standard treatment and nursing care.

RESULTS

Patients in the guided imagery group reported lower pain and anxiety scores, higher patient satisfaction, and increased comfort compared with patients in the control group. Patients in the guided imagery group showed significantly lower respiratory rate and heart rate than the control group by the end of the procedure. There was no significant difference in blood pressure.

CONCLUSION

Practicing guided imagery before and during a procedure performed under local anesthesia reduced cancer patients' pain, increased patient satisfaction and comfort, and had a positive effect on their respiratory and heart rates.

IMPLICATIONS FOR PRACTICE: We recommend guided imagery as a practical, low-cost complementary therapy for patients receiving local anesthesia.