Clinical Research Directory

The Effect of Preoperative Oral Care Procedures on Postoperative Thirst Discomfort

Aim: To determine the effect of an oral care procedure using cold distilled water, initiated in the preoperative period, on the level of discomfort associated with thirst in patients undergoing lung resection. Methods: This randomized controlled study was conducted between December 12, 2024, and December 24, 2025 with the participation of a sample of 78 patients who undergoing lung surgery in the Thoracic Surgery Department of a University hospital. Patients who received oral care using cold distilled water at four-hour intervals starting from the time of hospital admission were included in the experimental group.

The Effect of Positioning on Comfort, Stress Levels, and Physiological Functions in Premature Infants

A randomized crossover study was made to investigate the effect of different positions on the comfort, stress, and physiological functions of premature infants receiving non-invasive mechanical ventilation in the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU).

Effects of Cartoons & Interactive Storytelling on Fear and Comfort in 6-9 Year Olds During Nebulizer Treatment

Fear and anxiety experienced by children during inhalation therapy (using a nebulizer or vaporizer) are key factors that make treatment compliance difficult and reduce the quality of care. Young children, in particular, may perceive this process as "threatening" due to mask use, the noise produced by the device, and a sense of loss of control. This situation triggers a significant physiological stress response in the child. Therefore, in pediatric nursing, non-pharmacological methods that increase children's participation in treatment are of great importance. The literature indicates that interventions such as showing cartoons, playing music, and using distracting visual materials both reduce anxiety and improve stress indicators like heart rate. Additionally, therapeutic play has been proven to help children adapt to the hospital environment and soothe their emotional reactions. This study aims to evaluate the effectiveness of a nursing intervention-designed to enhance children's physical comfort and manage their fear and anxiety during inhalation therapy-that is breath-synchronized, interactive, and story-based.

The Effect of QR Code-Based Video Training on Knowledge Level, Self-Management, and Self-Efficacy in Patients With Urinary Catheters: A Randomized Controlled Study

This clinical study aims to find out if a QR code-based educational video helps adult men manage their urinary catheters after surgery. The study focuses on men who have a catheter after robotic prostate surgery. The main questions this study aims to answer are:Does watching a QR code-based educational video increase participants' knowledge about catheter care compared to receiving standard verbal instructions? Does the video education improve participants' self-management and confidence in taking care of their catheters? Researchers will compare two groups of participants:Video Group: Participants will scan a QR code with their smartphones to watch a short educational video (6 minutes and 40 seconds) about catheter care. They can rewatch this video as many times as they need. Standard Group: Participants will receive the usual standard verbal instructions from hospital staff. What participants will do:Agree to take part in the study and sign a consent form. Complete brief questionnaires about their knowledge, catheter self-management, and confidence levels at specific times (before education, on Day 5, and on Day 19). Follow their usual care plan and use the provided educational materials at home while they have a catheter for 5 to 14 days.

Effect of Mindful Breathing in Patient With Heart Failure:

The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of mindful breathing on symptom status and clinical parameters in patients with heart failure. This randomized controlled trial was conducted with a total 64 patients who randomly allocated to receive 64 HF patients. Stratified block randomization was used for randomization according to New York Heart Association classification heart failure (NYHA Stage II -III). Patients in the intervention group (n=32) performed mindful breathing for 20 minutes daily for 8 weeks. The control group (n=32) received routine treatment. The Heart Failure Symptom Status Scale was administered face-to- face to both groups on 0th day, at 8th and 12th weeks. Routine clinic evaluations included low-density lipoprotein, high-density lipoprotein, total cholesterol, and triglyceride levels assessed on 0th day, at 8th and 12th weeks. Ejection fraction values were accessed from the hospital data system on 0th day at the 8th week. The data were analyzed using IBM SPSS V23 and JAMOVI software.

Ultrasound-Guided Assessment of Ventrogluteal Intramuscular Injection in Adults With High BMI

This study evaluated the ventrogluteal site for intramuscular injection in adults with a body mass index of 25 kg/m² or higher. Ultrasound was used to measure subcutaneous tissue, muscle, and total tissue thickness at the injection site and the distances from the injection point to anatomical landmarks and the sciatic nerve. During intramuscular injection with a 40 mm needle, real-time ultrasound was used to visualize the needle tip and assess its position within the muscle. The study also evaluated successful intramuscular placement, subcutaneous medication leakage, and injection-related complications. The findings were assessed across three body mass index groups.

Turkish APA5 Validity Reliability

The aim of this research is to contribute to the nursing and medical literature by examining the validity and reliability of the English-language "APA 5 (Acute Pain Assessment Tool)" in Turkish.

The Effect of Gentle Human Touch and Stimulus Reduction on Pain and Comfort During Heel Blood Collection in Premature Newborns

Premature infants frequently experience painful procedures during their admission to neonatal intensive care units; this can lead to acute adverse events, imbalances, and long-term neurodevelopmental implications. This randomized controlled trial evaluates the impact of Gentle Human Touch (GHT) and rate change (eye mask and earplug) on pain and comfort during heel prick blood collection in premature infants (32-36+6 weeks gestational age). A total of 60 infants were randomly assigned to three groups: GHT, rate change, and standard care (pacifier). Pain was assessed using the Premature Infant Pain Profile-Revised (PIPP-R), and comfort was measured before, during, and after the procedure using the COMFORTneo operator. Physiological impact (heart rate, oxygen saturation) and propagation time were recorded. The findings provide evidence for safe and effective non-pharmacological interventions in pain management and their inclusion in developmental care protocols.

Cardiovascular Health and Nursing Interventions in 6th Grade Middle School Children

Interventions that can improve cardiovascular health behaviors in children are of critical importance for reducing the burden of cardiovascular disease in the future. The research will be conducted to evaluate the effectiveness of nursing interventions aimed at improving heart health in children. The study employs a pre-test post-test control group experimental design. The sample of the study consists of a total of 100 students, with 50 in the experimental group and 50 in the control group. The research will be conducted with students from two middle schools selected through simple random sampling method from Mamak district, Ankara province. Socio-demographic Data Collection Form and Cardiovascular Health Behavior Scale for Children will be used during the data collection process. A 5-week educational plan aimed at improving cardiovascular health behaviors will be implemented for the experimental group, while no intervention will be made for the control group. Research data will be analyzed using Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) 25.0 program. Continuous variables will be reported using mean (x̅) and standard deviation (SD), while number (n) and percentage (%) will be used for categorical variables. All tests will consider statistical significance at the level of p \< 0.05. For the study to be conducted, ethical approval will be obtained from the Ankara University Rectorate Ethics Committee, institutional permission will be obtained from the Ankara Provincial Directorate of National Education, and verbal consent from the included students and written consent from their parents will be obtained.

Effect of Individualized Nursing Care on Diabetes Self-Management

This randomized controlled trial aims to evaluate the effects of individualized nursing care interventions on self-efficacy, empowerment, and self-management behaviors in individuals diagnosed with diabetes. Diabetes requires lifelong management, and standard care approaches often fall short of meeting individual psychosocial and clinical needs. By implementing structured, patient-centered nursing care protocols, this study assesses how personalized education, follow-up, and support mechanisms influence patients' capacity to manage their condition, improve glycemic control, and enhance their overall quality of life.

The Effectiveness of Serious Game-Based Training for Nursing Students in Postpartum Haemorrhage Management

This randomized controlled trial evaluated the incremental effect of adding a web-based serious game to standard theoretical instruction on third-year nursing students' postpartum hemorrhage management knowledge, task-specific self-efficacy, and self-regulated learning. Using census recruitment, all 159 eligible students were invited, and 120 students consented and were randomly allocated in a 1:1 ratio to the intervention or control group (60 participants per group) using randomly permuted blocks of four. Both groups received the same three 40-minute theoretical sessions. The intervention group additionally completed an individual, self-paced, 30-50-minute browser-based serious game featuring a single branching postpartum hemorrhage scenario, clinical decision-making, and immediate physiological feedback. The control group received no additional educational activity before the immediate posttest assessment. Outcomes were assessed at baseline before randomization and immediately after the intervention or control condition. Outcome data were analyzed by an independent analyst blinded to group coding.Data will be collected using the PPK Management Knowledge and Skills Assessment Form and the PPK Management Self-Confidence Scale.

Port Catheter Training Effectiveness for Nurses

This study is a single-group quasi-experimental study designed to evaluate a structured port catheter training program for nurses. The intervention consists of theoretical instruction and practical demonstration on port catheter care and management. Nurses will participate in the training program and undergo assessments at predefined time points before and after the intervention to evaluate changes in knowledge related to port catheter care.

Effectiveness of a Digital Activity Platform for Informal and Formal Caregivers in Long-Term Care Facilities

The purpose of this study is to determine whether a digital engagement platform can support caregivers working in long-term care facilities. The main question is: Does the use of a digital engagement platform improve person-centred care for older adults living in long-term care facilities? The study includes formal caregivers (such as nursing staff) and informal caregivers (such as volunteers, family members, and civilian service participants) who provide care and support to older adults in long-term care facilities. One group of participants will use the digital engagement platform as part of their daily care activities. A comparison group will continue with usual care without access to the platform. Participants will take part in the study for 12 weeks and complete questionnaires at several time points. In addition, platform usage data will be collected. In addition to person-centred care, the study will examine: * Whether the platform improves caregivers' cultural competence. * Whether the platform supports the collection and documentation of residents' life history information. * How often and how long the platform is used by caregivers. * Caregivers' experiences with and satisfaction with the platform. The findings may help improve digital tools that support caregivers and enhance the quality of care for older adults in long-term care settings.

Dependence, Frailty, and Kinesiophobia on Early Postoperative Mobilization and Self-Care Ability in Patients Undergoing Lumbar Disc Herniation Surgery

Lumbar disc herniation is a common condition that may impair physical functioning and reduce independence in activities of daily living. Although surgery aims to relieve symptoms and improve functional recovery, individual factors present before surgery may influence postoperative rehabilitation outcomes. This prospective observational study aims to investigate the effects of preoperative dependency, frailty, and kinesiophobia on postoperative mobilization and self-care agency in patients undergoing lumbar disc herniation surgery. Data will be collected before surgery and on the first postoperative day using validated assessment instruments. The findings are expected to identify preoperative risk factors associated with early postoperative recovery and provide evidence to support individualized nursing care and rehabilitation planning.

Frailty and Dependency in Older Adults Undergoing Cardiac Surgery

Frailty and dependency are common conditions among older adults undergoing cardiac surgery and may adversely affect postoperative recovery and readiness for hospital discharge. Early identification of these conditions before surgery may facilitate individualized perioperative care and improve postoperative outcomes. This observational study aims to investigate the effects of preoperative frailty and dependency on postoperative recovery and readiness for hospital discharge in older patients undergoing cardiac surgery. Data will be collected before surgery and at hospital discharge using validated assessment instruments. The findings are expected to support preoperative risk assessment and contribute to individualized nursing care planning for older cardiac surgery patients.

Self-Efficacy, Surgical Fear and Psychological Well-Being in Abdominal Surgery

Surgical fear is a common psychological response among patients undergoing abdominal surgery and may adversely affect psychological well-being during the perioperative period. Individual psychosocial characteristics, particularly self-efficacy, may influence how patients perceive and cope with surgical fear. This cross-sectional observational study aims to determine the moderating effect of self-efficacy on the relationship between surgical fear and psychological well-being in patients undergoing abdominal surgery within the framework of Bandura's Social Cognitive Theory. Data will be collected preoperatively using validated questionnaires from 300 adult patients. The findings are expected to contribute to the identification of patients at risk for poor psychological outcomes and support the development of individualized nursing interventions.

AI-Powered Beauty Perceptions and Social Media Awareness Regarding Appearance on Social Appearance Anxiety in Patients Undergoing Cosmetic Surgery

This study aims to examine the relationship between social media use, perceptions of AI-generated beauty standards, and social appearance anxiety among individuals planning aesthetic surgery. The increasing exposure to idealized and digitally modified appearances through social media and generative artificial intelligence may shape individuals' beauty perceptions, increase appearance-related comparisons, and influence expectations regarding aesthetic surgical procedures. By evaluating social media usage characteristics, attitudes toward AI-generated beauty standards, and social appearance anxiety during the preoperative period, this study seeks to identify psychosocial factors that may affect surgical decision-making and expectations. The findings are expected to contribute to the identification of individuals at psychosocial risk, the development of realistic surgical expectations, and the planning of appropriate nursing counseling and psychosocial support interventions.

Predictors of Sleep Quality in Patients Undergoing Open-Heart Surgery

Sleep quality is a complex and multidimensional phenomenon shaped by the interaction of patient characteristics, symptom burden, and environmental factors specific to the intensive care unit environment. Despite this multidimensional nature, studies identifying predictors of sleep quality in intensive care units after cardiac surgery are limited.

Effect of AI-Assisted Respiratory Training on Pain, Fatigue and Respiratory Parameters in Patients After Open Heart Surgery

This randomized controlled study aims to evaluate the effect of artificial intelligence (AI)-assisted respiratory training on fatigue, pain, and respiratory parameters in patients after open heart surgery.

Application Effect Analysis of Bundle Nursing Intervention

This study aims to evaluate the impact of a multidisciplinary collaborative bundle nursing intervention based on targeted surveillance on the incidence of ICU device-associated infections (DAIs). The control group received routine nursing care, while the intervention group implemented a "targeted surveillance-multidisciplinary collaboration-bundle intervention" system. Infection rates, clinical outcomes, and intervention implementation were compared between the two groups.

Investigation of the Attitudes of Patients With Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease Towards Traditional Complementary Medicine Practices

Individuals with Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease need the help and support of caregivers in issues such as limitations in their physical and social functions, inadequacy, social isolation, dependency, and continuing their daily lives. The World Health Organization (WHO) defines traditional medicine as knowledge, skills, and practices based on beliefs, experiences, and theories used for the prevention, diagnosis, recovery, and treatment of physical and mental disorders. Since traditional medicine varies from culture to culture, it covers different, unique treatments and practices of countries and even regions within countries. In some countries, these practices (CAM) are called 'alternative' and 'complementary'. There has been an increase in the use of complementary medicine in the last 30 years in developed and developing countries. While modern medical practices are used due to the supportive nature of complementary medicine, it is also used for purposes such as relaxing the patient, strengthening their immunity, and improving their psychological state. Patients diagnosed with COPD sometimes resort to alternative treatments. In parallel with the increase in life expectancy, the increase in chronic diseases such as COPD, which are difficult to care for and treat, the inability of healthcare professionals to allocate enough time, the suspicion of modern methods and possible side effects have greatly increased the interest in GETAT methods. The decrease in exercise capacity of COPD patients, frequent infection attacks, muscle weakness, and the accompanying anxiety and depression in these patients can be counted as reasons for increasing GETAT use. In light of this information, it was aimed to examine the attitudes of individuals with COPD towards GETAT use? Research Questions; What is the GETAT use status of individuals with COPD? What are the attitudes of individuals with COPD towards GETAT?

Caregiver Training Regarding Percutaneous Endoscopic Gastrostomy Feeding and Care

Background: Percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy (PEG) is used for patients who cannot be fed orally, have a reduced swallowing reflex, or require long-term feeding. PEG care and feeding, which is performed with nursing support in healthcare institutions, becomes the responsibility of the caregiver after discharge. During this process, a lack of information and insufficient mastery of PEG feeding can create stress for caregivers. This situation jeopardizes patient safety. Therefore, healthcare professionals should manage patient-centered care from the moment the PEG indication is established until discharge. In this regard, consistent guidance and healthcare education are needed for caregivers. Aim and hypotheses: This study aims to examine the effects of hands-on PEG feeding and PEG care training, enriched with audiovisual materials (video), on caregivers' knowledge level, skills, and stress levels related to the PEG feeding and care process. H1: The training provided for caregivers increases their knowledge level regarding PEG feeding and care. H2: The training provided for caregivers increases their skill level regarding PEG feeding and care. H3: The training provided for caregivers reduces their stress levels related to PEG feeding and care. Design: This study was designed as a randomized controlled trial with experimental and control groups. Method: The study population will consist of caregivers of patients receiving inpatient care at a state hospital and undergoing PEG placement for the first time. The sample size was calculated using the G-Power 3.1 program, resulting in a sample size of 54 (n1=27, n2=27), including the dropout rate. Participants will be randomly assigned to groups. The intervention group will receive hands-on training related to PEG feding and care using a low-fidelity model. In addition, caregivers will be provided with video training on PEG feeding and care that they can watch for review when needed. The control group will receive standard institutional training provided by the nutrition nurse of the institution where the study is conducted. Data will be collected face-to-face using a "Personal Information Form", "State Anxiety Inventory", "Skills Checklist", and "PEG Care Konowledge Form". Three measurements will be taken in the study. Test 0: Before the training (Personal Information Form, State Anxiety Inventory), Test 1: After the training (with the PEG Care Knowledge Form and the State Anxiety Inventory). Additionally, the researcher will evaluate the caregiver's feeding and care practices using the Skills Checklist. Test 2: Two weeks after from the Test 1 (State Anxiety Inventory and PEG Care Konowledge Form), also the researcher will also evaluate the caregiver's practices a second time using the Skills Checklist. Data will be analyzed using the SPSS Statistics 27 software package.

Mandala Painting During Chemotherapy

In addition to managing drug side effects that arise during cancer treatment, maintaining the patient's psychosocial well-being is also very important. Therefore, the aim of this project is to examine the effect of mandala painting during chemotherapy on anxiety, nausea, and comfort levels. This project aims to reduce the negative effects of chemotherapy, such as nausea, anxiety, and decreased comfort, by distracting the patient's attention through the non-invasive and non-pharmacological practice of mandala coloring in patients undergoing chemotherapy. Mandala painting is a distraction and positive focus practice. A limited number of studies conducted on cancer patients have shown that it reduces distress and improves psychological well-being. However, no study in the literature has comprehensively addressed the symptoms experienced by patients during chemotherapy, such as anxiety, nausea, intense stress, and impaired comfort. The research will be conducted on patients undergoing chemotherapy for the first time, and patients in the experimental group will engage in mandala coloring for at least 30 minutes. Data obtained from assessments conducted before and after chemotherapy will be compared with control group data. This project will provide a more comprehensive assessment of the effect of mandala painting, a non-pharmacological intervention, on the negative symptoms of patients undergoing chemotherapy for the first time. In addition to its scientific contribution, it is believed that effective symptom management can contribute to patients' well-being. Furthermore, if nausea can be controlled, the need for antiemetics during treatment can be reduced. This will also contribute to reducing unwanted drug effects and lowering costs.

Nursing Intervention for Adaptation After Myocardial Revascularization

Introduction: Myocardial revascularization is an essential procedure for patients with cardiovascular disease. Its recovery in the outpatient setting involves significant challenges for both the patient and the caregiver. This recovery phase may generate physical, emotional, and psychological complications that require an effective adaptation process of the patient-caregiver dyad to ensure successful recovery and improved quality of life. Objective: To evaluate the preliminary effectiveness of a nursing intervention aimed at improving adaptation in the patient-caregiver dyad during the outpatient postoperative period following myocardial revascularization, compared with usual care, in Bucaramanga during the period 2026-2027. Materials and Methods: A pilot randomized controlled trial will be conducted to develop and evaluate a novel nursing intervention aimed at promoting adaptation in patients undergoing outpatient postoperative myocardial revascularization and their caregivers. The intervention will be designed and its feasibility, acceptability, and preliminary effectiveness will be assessed. Data analysis will be performed using descriptive and inferential statistical methods, considering the distribution and behavior of the data. Expected Results: The study is expected to assess the preliminary effectiveness of the proposed intervention through the integration of theoretical and empirical components.