Question

The APRN is monitoring a newly intubated patient. He appears to be very anxious and “fighting” the ventilator. What would be the most appropriate action?

Answer 1

The ability to address patient concerns is one of many important characteristics of a health care professional, nurses included. Sometimes patient concerns may be emotional due to anxiety about doctor visits. Nurses must know how to cope with these anxieties to provide a better experience. Below are four relaxation tips to help such patients calm down.

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1. Breathing Exercises

Controlled breathing is one of the simplest ways nurses can help patients manage their anxiety. Deep breathing forces the mind, heart and body to slow down, countering the side effects of stress.

Nurses have many options when taking their patients through breathing exercises. One choice is sama vritti, a yogic breathing style that focuses on creating an equal ratio between the inhale and the exhale. Diaphragmatic breathing, also known as abdominal breathing, deep breathing or belly breathing.

2. Guided Imagery

The effects of this technique are similar to those of breathing exercises. Guided imagery is based on the notion of a mind-body connection where mental focus eases the physical symptoms of anxiety, lowering blood pressure, respiration and heart rates.

The difference between the two tactics is in the approach. Whereas the former technique focuses on the breath, guided imagery utilizes the imagination. Patients are told to picture something in such incredible detail that their body reacts as though that item were in front of them.

3. Calming Environments

Mankind has long felt a connection to nature, which is why many businesses have started incorporating such elements in their design. Companies like Google and Facebook incorporate tree-filled outdoor spaces and lush office plants to keep employees happy and productive.

Hospitals have started doing the same. As Fast Company detailed, The Province Sacred Heart Medical Center in Spokane, Washington, uses wood, warm colors and natural light to help both patients and staff relax. The center also has a green outdoor “healing garden” for relaxation.

4. Soothing Music

As Science Daily reported, a study from Cochin University Hospital in Paris found playing music for 15 minutes significantly decreases patient anxiety. Researchers observed 62 patients preparing for cataract surgery, giving them the option of listening to music designed for increased relaxation or no music at all.