The Effect of Stress Ball Use on Stress, Sleep Quality and Comfort Levels

The Effect of Stress Ball Use on Stress, Sleep Quality, and Comfort Levels in Hemodialysis Patients: A Randomized Controlled Study

This study was conducted to determine the impact of stress ball use on stress, sleep quality, and comfort levels in hemodialysis patients.

The study population consisted of patients undergoing hemodialysis treatment in the hemodialysis unit of a training and research hospital located in western Türkiye between February 19, 2024, and April 19, 2024 (N=90). The study sample included a total of 60 patients (30 in the experimental group and 30 in the control group), selected through randomization from those who met the research criteria and agreed to participate. During the study, two patients from the experimental group and one patient from the control group were excluded from the study due to health issues that prevented them from using the stress ball. The study was conducted with a total of 57 patients (28 in the experimental group and 29 in the control group).

Inclusion Criteria:

• participants had to be volunteers
• aged 18 years and older,
• undergoing hemodialysis treatment for at least six months,
• attending hemodialysis sessions three times a week,
• not having any conditions that would impede the use of a stress ball.

Exclusion Criteria:

• individuals who refused to participate in the study,
• those undergoing hemodialysis for less than six months,
• patients attending hemodialysis sessions twice a week,
• individuals with health problems that prevented them from using a stress ball.