The Effect of Hand Massage on Anxiety and Comfort of Bariatric Surgery Patients: A Randomised Controlled Trial

The Effect of Hand Massage on Anxiety and Comfort of Bariatric Surgery Patients: A Randomised Controlled Trial

This study was conducted to determine the effect of hand massage on anxiety and comfort levels in bariatric surgery patients.

This study was conducted to determine the effect of hand massage on anxiety and comfort levels in bariatric surgery patients. This randomised controlled trial was conducted in the General Surgery Clinic of a University Hospital in eastern Turkey with all adult patients undergoing bariatric surgery between September 2024 - March 2025. The sample consisted of 90 randomised patients who received hand massage and received only routine care. Data were collected using the Patient Information Form, State-Trait Anxiety Inventory (STAI), General Comfort Scale-Short Form (SGCQ).

Inclusion criteria:

• Aged 18 or older
• Not having a speech problem or hearing loss
• Not having any condition that would reduce comprehension and understanding abilities
• Agreeing to participate in the study
• Having a body mass index (BMI) ≥ 30.

Exclusion criteria:

• Having compromised tissue and skin on the forearm or hands (e.g., wounds, eczema, inflammation, phlebitis, arthritis, and rashes)
• Having an intravenous catheter in the back of the hand.