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Stress Ball and Empathic Verbal-Tactile Interventions for Reducing Anxiety and Pain in Mammography and Breast Ultrasonography: A Randomized Trial
Sponsor: Istanbul University
Summary
This prospective, randomized controlled trial aims to determine the effects of stress ball use and empathic verbal communication with therapeutic touch on anxiety and pain perception in women undergoing mammography and breast ultrasonography. The study will be conducted between May and September 2026 at Istanbul Bakırköy Dr. Sadi Konuk Training and Research Hospital. A total of 122 women meeting the inclusion criteria will be randomly assigned into three groups: stress ball group (n=41), empathic verbal communication with touch group (n=41), and control group (n=40). Women in the stress ball group will be instructed to use a soft stress ball before and during the procedure. Participants in the empathic verbal-tactile group will receive structured verbal empathy combined with therapeutic touch. The control group will receive routine care without additional intervention. Data will be collected before and after the procedures using a Descriptive Characteristics Form, the State-Trait Anxiety Inventory, and a Numerical Rating Scale for pain assessment. The findings of this study are expected to provide evidence on the effectiveness of non-pharmacological interventions in reducing anxiety and pain during breast imaging procedures.
Official title: Effects of Stress Ball Use and Empathic Verbal Communication With Therapeutic Touch on Anxiety and Pain Perception in Women Undergoing Mammography and Breast Ultrasonography: A Randomized Controlled Trial
Key Details
Gender
FEMALE
Age Range
18 Years - Any
Study Type
INTERVENTIONAL
Enrollment
122
Start Date
2026-05-04
Completion Date
2026-09-30
Last Updated
2026-05-01
Healthy Volunteers
Yes
Interventions
Stress Ball
Participants will be provided with a soft, smooth stress ball (approximately 6 cm in diameter) prior to the imaging procedure. They will be instructed to rhythmically squeeze and release the ball while waiting for mammography and to continue using it during breast ultrasonography until the procedure is completed.
Empathic Verbal-Tactile Intervention
Empathic Verbal Communication with Therapeutic Touch (Behavioral) Participants will be taken to a quiet waiting area before the procedure. Trained researchers will deliver standardized empathic verbal statements to provide reassurance and emotional support. At the same time, gentle therapeutic touch will be applied by placing a hand on the participant's shoulder. The intervention will be administered prior to the imaging procedure.