The effect of modified relaxation breathing technique on pain anxiety in patients with second-degree burns: A clinical trial study

Purpose: To determine the effect of modified relaxation breathing technique on pain anxiety in patients with second-degree burns. Methods: The present study is a clinical trial that was performed on 30 patients with second-degree burns admitted to the Imam Hossein Burn Center in Zabol, Iran. Patients in the experimental group performed breathing technique in the form of 4 counts deep inspiration through the nose, pause for four counts, and expiration with pursed lips for four counts. The experiment was done half an hour for four days before dressing. Data were analyzed using Mann-Whitney U statistical test. The significance level was set at <0.05. Results: There was no significant different on pain anxiety between study groups prior to the intervention ( p = 0.287). However, the median scores of pain anxiety in the experimental group in four sessions were significantly reduced compared to the control group after the intervention ( p < 0.001). Conclusion: The modified relaxation breathing technique has reduced pain anxiety in patients with second-degree burns. Therefore, it is recommended to be used along with other methods to control pain anxiety for the patients.