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The Effect of Progressive Muscle Relaxation and Deep Breathing Exercises Applied to Palliative Care Cancer Patients on Dyspnea, Fatigue, and Self-Care Behaviors
Sponsor: Ankara University
Summary
The purpose of this study is to evaluate the effects of Progressive Muscle Relaxation (PMR) exercises and deep breathing exercises on dyspnea, fatigue, and self-care behaviors among cancer patients receiving palliative care. Advanced-stage cancer patients frequently experience debilitating symptoms such as shortness of breath (dyspnea) and severe fatigue, which significantly impair their functional capacity and daily self-care activities. Participants in this study will be assigned to either a progressive muscle relaxation intervention group or a structured deep breathing exercise group. The study aims to determine whether these non-pharmacological relaxation techniques can effectively reduce the severity of dyspnea and fatigue, thereby improving the patients' overall self-care behaviors and physical comfort in a palliative care setting.
Key Details
Gender
All
Age Range
18 Years - Any
Study Type
INTERVENTIONAL
Enrollment
90
Start Date
2026-01-01
Completion Date
2026-12
Last Updated
2026-06-03
Healthy Volunteers
No
Interventions
Progressive Muscle Relaxation
A structured relaxation training based on tension and release of major muscle groups. In the initial session, patients will receive visual and practical education on how to perform PMR. They will be provided with an MP3 player containing guided audio instructions to facilitate independent practice. Patients will be instructed to perform the PMR program once daily for 6 weeks. For hospitalized patients, the sessions will be guided directly by the researcher; discharged patients will be followed up via phone.
Deep Breathing Exercises
A structured respiratory intervention consisting of controlled breathing techniques, specifically diaphragmatic (abdominal) breathing and pursed-lip breathing, aimed at managing dyspnea. Detailed practical training on these techniques will be provided to the patients in the first interview. Patients will be requested to perform these breathing exercises twice daily for 6 weeks. Hospitalized patients will perform them under the researcher's supervision, and discharged patients will be monitored via weekly phone calls.
Locations (4)
Ankara Gazi Mustafa Kemal Occupational and Environmental Diseases Hospital, Palliative Care Unit
Ankara, YENIMAHALLE, Turkey (Türkiye)
Ankara Ataturk Sanatorium Training and Research Hospital,Palliative Care Unit
Ankara, Turkey (Türkiye)
Ankara Sincan Training and Research Hospital, Palliative Care Unit
Ankara, Turkey (Türkiye)
Gulhane Training and Research Hospital, Palliative Care Unit
Ankara, Turkey (Türkiye)