Effects of Breathing Exercises on Pain, Fatigue, and Anxiety Levels in Women Receiving Brachytherapy

Breathing Exercise Women Receiving Brachytherapy

Breathing exercises are one of the most useful techniques to reduce stress and anxiety. The aim of this study is to determine the effects of breathing exercises on pain, anxiety and fatigue in patients receiving brachytherapy treatment.

Introduction: Breathing exercises are one of the most useful techniques to reduce stress and anxiety.

Objective: The aim of this study is to determine the effects of breathing exercises on pain, anxiety and fatigue in patients receiving brachytherapy treatment.

Method: The sample of the study will consist of 56 women who applied to the Brachytherapy Unit of a training and research hospital. The research data will be collected using the Introductory Information Form, Numerical Pain Scale, Beck Anxiety Inventory and Piper Fatigue Scale. Although studies have been conducted in different areas regarding breathing exercises, no study has been found in our country regarding the effects of breathing exercises on patients receiving brachytherapy. Therefore, this study will determine the effects of breathing exercises on pain, anxiety and fatigue in patients receiving brachytherapy treatment and contribute to the literature.

Conclusion: It is thought that breathing exercises will be beneficial in reducing physical and psychological symptoms.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Being over 18 years old
• Being willing to participate in the study
• Being able to speak and understand Turkish

Exclusion Criteria:

• Having a malignancy related to the respiratory system (bronchus or lung)
• Having chest pain
• Having done box breathing and diaphragm breathing exercises/receiving training before
• Having cognitive dysfunction
• Not giving consent to participate in the study