The Effect of Stress Ball Use on Immobilization Comfort, Pain Level, and Vital Signs in Patients After Coronary Angiography.

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BACKGROUND: Coronary angiography is an invasive procedure that can lead to changes in patients' pain levels, vital signs, and comfort levels. OBJECTIVE: The objective of this study is to investigate the effect of stress ball use on immobilization comfort, pain level, and vital signs in patients after coronary angiography. METHODS: This randomized controlled study was conducted between April and July 2024 in the cardiology clinic of a training and research hospital. The intervention group (n = 35) used a stress ball, whereas the control group (n = 35) was given standard care. Data collection was conducted using the "Patient Information Form," "Visual Analog Scale," "Immobilization Comfort Scale," and "Vital Signs Monitoring Form." RESULTS: The immobilization comfort level of the intervention group was significantly different from that of the control group ( P = .042; η 2 = 0.023) ( P < .05). Similarly, the pain intensity averages during and after the procedure in the intervention group were significantly different from the control group ( P < .001, P < .001; η 2 = 0.464, η 2 = 0.528) ( P < .001). Respiratory rates of the intervention group were lower than those of the control group during and after the procedure, with a significant difference and effect between the 2 groups ( P = .031, P = .048; η 2 = 0.216, η 2 = 0.282) ( P < .05). CONCLUSIONS: Using a stress ball after coronary angiography was found to be an effective method for improving immobilization comfort, reducing pain, and lowering respiratory rates.