The Effect of Virtual Reality Headset and Hand Massage on Pain, Anxiety, Patient Satisfaction, and Physiological Parameters in Patients Who Have Undergone Abdominal Surgery

This randomized controlled trial aims to investigate the effects of using a virtual reality headset and conventional hand massage on pain, anxiety, patient satisfaction, and physiological parameters in patients undergoing abdominal surgery. Participants will be randomly assigned to three groups: the virtual reality group, the conventional hand massage group, and the control group. Pain levels, anxiety levels, satisfaction levels, and physiological parameters will be assessed both before and after the procedure. The study aims to determine whether these non-pharmacological methods improve postoperative pain, anxiety, patient satisfaction, and physiological parameters.

Inclusion Criteria: * • Aged 18 and older * Who have not previously undergone abdominal surgery * Who underwent elective surgery * Who had a numerical pain scale score of 3 or higher prior to the procedure * Possessing the cognitive ability to tolerate the virtual reality headset application * Voluntarily agreeing to participate in the study * Patients on the second postoperative day * No history of chronic pain (e.g., arthritis) * Patients who are alert and oriented enough to communicate (Glasgow Coma Scale 15) * Patients with normal vision and hearing * Patients suitable for hand massage * Patients who are not addicted to alcohol or drugs * Patients not taking anxiolytics * Patients who can read and understand Turkish Exclusion Criteria: * • Those under the age of 18 * Those with vision or hearing loss * Those who are not clinically stable * Those who have undergone emergency surgery * Those with a known history of epilepsy, vertigo, or limited mobility * Those with surgical incisions or wounds in the facial area that prevent them from wearing VR goggles * Those using chronic opioids or psychiatric medications * Individuals with open wounds, burns, infections, phlebitis, ecchymosis, hematomas, or fractures on their hands * Patients with an intravenous catheter in their hand * Those who wish to withdraw from the study during the research period