Stress Reduction Techniques After Surgery

Posted Wednesday, September 12, 2007 to MARKETSPACE > Home Recovery

Posted by The Original Anti-Aging & Cosmetic Surgery Magazine

Laura Leroy RN, BSN describes some methods for healing post surgery.

According to the Nursing Diagnosis Association, anxiety is defined as "a state in which the individual experiences feelings of uneasiness (apprehension) and activation of the autonomic nervous system in response to a vague non-specific threat."

Measures that assist individuals suffering from anxiety and provide alternative coping mechanisms can give the patient a sense of physiological and psychological comfort.

Nurses have a comprehensive understanding of alternative therapies in reducing anxiety/stress and, through training are capable of bringing peace and comfort to people who seek help and advice. By incorporating complementary therapies they can take a more holistic approach to patient care.The holistic philosophy of health views the environment, physical, mental, emotional and spiritual aspects of life as intricately interwoven and seeks to create balance by attending to them all.

This framework of practice is based on Dorothy O'Rem's self-care theory. This theory speaks to achieving optimal patient self-care, so the patient can achieve and maintain an optimal state of health. With this in mind a teaching plan for stress reduction can be easily implemented into the nursing care plan. Stress reduction can be as simple as a daily ritual of a 30-minute walk, which can provide the necessary nourishment for the brain and body.

Use of Complementary Therapies

Complementary therapies are being used increasingly throughout the world. Some of these therapies can be easily taught and reproduced by the patient. A few of these therapies are aromatherapy, hydrotherapy, meditation, progressive relaxation, tai chi, visualization, yoga and affirmations.

Aromatherapy

Hydrobaths, facials, and body massage with an application of fragrant essential oils.

Hydrotherapy

Showers, jet sprays and mineral baths.

Meditation

The meditation focuses concentration on their breath, or on a particular thought, sound or image or length of time. Meditation is the practice of bringing one's total focus into the present moment.

Progressive Relaxation.

A progressive process that promotes the lessening of tension and reduction of anxiety Deep muscle relaxation is based on the premise that muscle tension is the body's physiological response to anxiety-provoking thoughts and that muscle relaxation blocks anxiety

Tai Chi

A Chinese martial arts form with a constant flow of energy, combining mental concentration, slow breathing and graceful dance-like movements.

Visualization

Using a person's own imagination and positive thinking to reduce stress.

Yoga

Using postures and controlled breathing to stretch and tone the body improves circulation and creates a state of well being.

Affirmations

Are positive statements made in the present tense - they never contain negatives. The use of affirmations occupies the consciousness with positive thoughts leaving no room for negative thoughts. To help a patient alleviate stress it is important to incorporate mental, physical, emotional, and spiritual practices into the nursing care plan.

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