Postoperative care is critical in enhancing recovery outcomes for surgical patients, particularly in managing pain, anxiety, and vital signs. Despite advancements in medical care, patients continue to report significant postoperative discomfort. Progressive Muscle Relaxation (PMR) has emerged as a non-pharmacological intervention that may improve recovery. This review aimed to assess the effectiveness of PMR in managing postoperative symptoms among abdominal surgery patients. A literature review of 52 sources was conducted, categorized into four areas: abdominal surgery, PMR techniques, general effects of PMR, and PMR in abdominal surgery patients. Evidence consistently indicates that PMR significantly reduces pain, anxiety, and improves vital parameters such as blood pressure and respiratory rate. Studies support PMR as a cost-effective, simple, and efficient adjunct to standard postoperative care. The findings advocate for integrating PMR into nursing practice to enhance patient outcomes and recovery in abdominal surgical settings. Keywords: Progressive Muscle Relaxation, postoperative pain, abdominal surgery, anxiety, vital signs, non-pharmacological intervention.
Vyas et al. (Thu,) studied this question.