The Effectiveness of Deep Breathing Relaxation Techniques in Reducing Pain in Postoperative Patients

Authors

  • Maidina Putri STIKes As Syifa Kisaran, Indonesia
  • Lela Nurlela STIKES Hang Tuah Surabaya, Indonesia
  • Sukma ayu Candra Kirana STIKES Hang Tuah Surabaya, Indonesia
  • Arnianti Arnianti STIKes Yapika, Indonesia

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.59585/ijhs.v3i3.830

Keywords:

Deep Breathing Relaxation, Postoperative Pain, Pain Management

Abstract

Background: Postoperative pain is a common problem experienced by patients after surgery. Inadequate pain management can slow the recovery process, increase physiological stress, and reduce the patient's quality of life. One non-pharmacological method that can be used is deep breathing relaxation techniques, which aim to increase oxygenation, reduce muscle tension, and provide a calming effect.

Objective: To determine the effectiveness of deep breathing relaxation techniques in reducing pain intensity in post-operative patients.

Method: The study used a quasi-experimental design with a pre-test approach. post-test control group Design. The sample consisted of 60 elective post-surgery patients at Hospital X, divided into an intervention group (n=30, given deep breathing relaxation techniques) and a control group (n=30, given standard care). Pain intensity was measured using a Visual Analog Scale (VAS) before the intervention and 30 minutes after the intervention. Data analysis was performed using paired t- test and independent t- test.

Results: The mean pain score before intervention in the deep breathing relaxation group was 5.8 (SD ±1.2), decreasing to 3.2 (SD ±1.1) after intervention. Meanwhile, in the control group, the pain score before intervention was 5.7 (SD ±1.3) and after 30 minutes it became 5.4 (SD ±1.2). Statistical tests showed a significant difference between the two groups (p < 0.05).

Conclusion: Deep breathing relaxation techniques are effective in reducing pain intensity in postoperative patients. This method can be recommended as a simple, inexpensive, and easy-to-implement non-pharmacological therapy to support postoperative pain management.

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Author Biographies

Maidina Putri, STIKes As Syifa Kisaran, Indonesia

Midwife Profession Study Program

Lela Nurlela, STIKES Hang Tuah Surabaya, Indonesia

Nursingl Study Program

Sukma ayu Candra Kirana, STIKES Hang Tuah Surabaya, Indonesia

Nursingl Study Program

Arnianti Arnianti, STIKes Yapika, Indonesia

Midwifery Professional Study Program

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Published

2025-09-12

How to Cite

Putri, M., Nurlela, L., Kirana, S. ayu C., & Arnianti, A. (2025). The Effectiveness of Deep Breathing Relaxation Techniques in Reducing Pain in Postoperative Patients. International Journal of Health Sciences, 3(3), 560–566. https://doi.org/10.59585/ijhs.v3i3.830