Effects of virtual reality and acupressure interventions on pain, anxiety, vital signs and comfort in catheter extraction processes for patients undergoing coronary angiography: A randomized controlled trial

BackgroundPain and anxiety management in patients undergoing medical and surgical procedures is an important competence area for nurses. AimThis study aimed to determine and compare the effects of virtual reality and acupressure interventions on pain, anxiety, vital signs and comfort levels in the process of femoral catheter extraction for patients undergoing coronary angiography. MethodsThe study was a single-blind, three-group, randomized controlled trial conducted in the cardiology clinics of a university hospital in 2021. A total of 153 patients (51 virtual reality, 51 acupressure, 51 control) participated in the study. Data were collected using a Visual Analogue Scale, the State-Trait Anxiety Inventory, a vital signs follow-up form and the Perianesthesia Comfort Scale. ResultsBoth intervention groups had significantly lower pain and anxiety scores, as well as higher comfort scores, compared to the control group (p < 0.001). The virtual reality group had lower systolic blood pressure, respiratory rate and pulse rate than the control group (p < 0.05). The acupressure group had lower systolic and diastolic blood pressure and respiratory rate than the control group (p < 0.05). ConclusionsWhile neither intervention group was found to be superior to the other, both interventions improved vital signs and comfort levels by reducing pain and anxiety.