Pain management nursing : official journal of the American Society of Pain Management Nurses
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Following total knee replacement (TKR) surgery, patients frequently experience intense levels of pain, stress, and anxiety that may reduce their self-efficacy and thus affect their postoperative recovery. Relaxation intervention is beneficial to help patients manage physical pain and emotional tension. However, evidence for the efficacy of relaxation intervention on patients following TKR is still inconclusive. ⋯ Following the intervention, participants reported significantly lower pain, stress, and anxiety and greater perceived relaxation and self-efficacy. Findings from this study contribute to both nursing science and clinical practice. The relaxation intervention can be offered as part of standard care for patients following TKR in hospitals.
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This study was conducted to determine the following among a group of female university students: the prevalence of dysmenorrhea; pain severity ratings; methods used to manage dysmenorrhea; and the effect of dysmenorrhea on daily activities, school attendance, and ability to communicate with friends. This cross-sectional study was conducted between December 2009 and February 2010 at a public university located in Istanbul, in the northwest area of Turkey. The study group included 1515 female students. ⋯ Participants who experienced severe pain consulted a physician and that a significant difference existed between the dysmenorrhea rating groups in this regard (p < .001). Severe pain was significantly associated with school absenteeism and limitations in social activities/functioning (p < .001). Dysmenorrhea is highly prevalent among university students and is related to school absenteeism, ability to participate in and enjoy daily activities, and limitations in social activities/functioning.