J Cardiovasc Nurs. 2026 Jun 22. doi: 10.1097/JCN.0000000000001349. Online ahead of print.
ABSTRACT
BACKGROUND: The management of postoperative pain in children represents a complex and crucial aspect of their care.
OBJECTIVE: This study was conducted to determine the effect of massage on pain and vital signs in children receiving postoperative care following cardiovascular surgery.
METHODS: The study was conducted in accordance with a randomized controlled experimental design, with 86 children undergoing cardiovascular surgery in the postoperative period. Patients in the experimental group received classical massage. Pain and vital signs were evaluated in the experimental and control groups.
RESULTS: The mean scores of the children in the experimental and control groups were found to be statistically similar at the pretest measurement. A statistically significant difference was identified between the groups in the mean scores of pain, heart rate, and oxygen saturation at the posttest measurement.
CONCLUSIONS: The massage therapy group exhibited reduced postoperative pain compared with the control group, and demonstrated favorable effects on oxygen saturation, respiratory rate, heart rate, and systolic blood pressure.
PMID:42319840 | DOI:10.1097/JCN.0000000000001349