The Effect of Virtual Reality and Eye Mask Application During Dressing After Coronary Artery Bypass Graft Surgery on Sternotomy Pain, Anxiety, and Physiological Parameters

This randomized controlled experimental study investigates the effects of virtual reality (VR) and eye mask (EM) applications on sternotomy pain, anxiety, and physiological parameters during postoperative dressing following Coronary Artery Bypass Graft (CABG) surgery.Pain and anxiety during dressing procedures after CABG surgery can negatively affect the recovery process, increase stress responses, prolong hospital stays, and raise the need for medication. Non-pharmacological interventions such as VR and EM are considered effective strategies for managing these symptoms.

The study includes 90 patients, randomly assigned to one of three groups: VR Group: Patients watched 360-degree nature-themed videos using a virtual reality headset during dressing. EM Group: Patients wore an eye mask during dressing. Control Group: Patients received standard care without any additional intervention. The study is being conducted in the Cardiovascular Surgery Intensive Care Unit of a public hospital located in Istanbul, Türkiye.

Inclusion criteria include adult patients undergoing CABG for the first time, ASA classification I-II-III, fully conscious, oriented, cooperative, and willing to provide informed consent. Exclusion criteria include patients with infections or complications, psychiatric disorders, or sensory impairments such as hearing or vision problems. Pain and anxiety levels are assessed at three time points during both the first and second dressing procedures: baseline, immediately after dressing, and 15 minutes after dressing. Physiological parameters (blood pressure, pulse rate, respiratory rate, oxygen saturation) are measured at four time points: baseline, immediately after dressing, and 15 minutes after dressing. Analgesic use is recorded baseline and immediately after each dressing. This study is one of the first to compare VR and EM interventions in the context of high-risk, postoperative cardiac surgery. The results are expected to contribute to evidence-based nursing practices, improve patient comfort in the postoperative period, and support the use of cost-effective, drug-free alternatives for pain and anxiety management in clinical care.