Effects of relaxation training on sleep quality and fatigue in patients with breast cancer undergoing adjuvant chemotherapy

Abstract

AIM: The purpose of this study was to investigate the effect of progressive muscle relaxation training on sleep quality and fatigue in Turkish women with breast cancer undergoing adjuvant chemotherapy. BACKGROUND: Sleep problems and fatigue are highly prevalent in patients with breast cancer. Progressive muscle relaxation training is a promising approach in ameliorating the sleep quality and reducing the fatigue associated with cancer and its treatment. DESIGN: A prospective, repeated measures, quasi-experimental design with control group. METHODS: The study sampling consisted of 27 individuals (14 individuals formed the progressive muscle relaxation group, 13 individuals formed the control group) who met the criteria for inclusion in the study. Progressive muscle relaxation training was given to the progressive muscle relaxation group, but not to the control group. The effect of the progressive muscle relaxation training was measured at different stages of the treatment. A data collection form, Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index and Piper Fatigue Scale were used to collect the data for this study. RESULTS: The progressive muscle relaxation group experienced a greater increase in improved sleep quality and a greater decrease in fatigue than the control group. CONCLUSIONS: The findings indicated that progressive muscle relaxation training would improve sleep quality and fatigue in patients with breast cancer undergoing adjuvant chemotherapy. RELEVANCE TO CLINICAL PRACTICE: Progressive muscle relaxation training given by a nurse can improve sleep quality and fatigue in patients with breast cancer. It is important to start relaxation training just before chemotherapy to decrease the frequency and severity of sleep problems and symptoms such as fatigue during chemotherapy.