Effect of reflexology on anxiety level among patients undergoing coronary angiography

Background Angiography is a highly effective invasive method for diagnosing coronary artery diseases but can lead to certain psychological problems such as anxiety. Aim To investigate the effect of foot reflexology therapy on anxiety level among patients undergoing coronary angiography. Research hypothesis H: patients undergoing coronary angiography who will receive the foot reflexology therapy will reveal lesser mean anxiety scores than before the intervention. Design A quasi-experimental research design was used. Setting This study was conducted at two selected critical care units affiliated to Cairo University Hospitals. Sample A purposive sample of 40 adult patients undergoing coronary angiography was recruited throughout 8 months. Tools Two tools were utilized to collect data: first, demographic characteristics and medical data, and second, state-trait anxiety inventory. Results There were significant statistical differences in mean anxiety scores in the reflexology study group before intervention, immediately, and 30 min after intervention ( f =13.32/ P =0.00). So, there was a significant decrease in anxiety scores immediately after intervention. Moreover, significant differences were detected among the studied patients’ anxiety mean scores according to their age 30 min after intervention (0.00); the age categories between 40 and 49 years showed less anxiety at this point of time. Finally, no significant statistical correlations whatsoever were found between selected demographic variables and mean anxiety scores at all time series of intervention. Conclusion It can be concluded that, foot reflexology was an effective method to decrease anxiety among patients undergoing coronary angiography.