Effect of Active and Passive Heating Methods Used in Different Areas of Perioperative Processes on Thermal Comfort and Anxiety: A Randomized Control Trial

Abstract

Purpose: This study was conducted to determine the effects of active and passive heating methods applied in different parts of the perioperative process on thermal comfort, anxiety, and vital signs. Design: This study was conducted with patients admitted for open abdominal surgery between October 1, 2018 and January 10, 2019. Patients were randomly allocated into three groups as follows: Group A (n = 33), Group B (n = 33), and Group C (control group; n = 33). Methods: This study is a randomized, pretest–posttest controlled experimental design. Intervention Group A and B gowns blowing warm air were used as intervention tools. Procedural care (Group C) received routine hospital care. Vital signs, thermal comfort, and anxiety levels of the patients were evaluated. Findings: Compared to those in Group B, for patients in Group A, the thermal comfort levels were higher and the anxiety levels were lower. The highest body temperature was seen in the patients in Group A. No difference was noted in blood pressure values between the groups. The pulse values of the patients in Groups A and B were significantly lower. Conclusion: The use of gowns blowing warm air had a positive effect on the patients’ anxiety, thermal comfort, and vital signs.

Keywords

• active heating
• anxiety
• blowing warm air
• nursing
• hypothermia
• thermal comfort

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