Clinically guided relaxation techniques in children undergoing medical procedures: a literature review.

Abstract

Medical procedures can often be a source of distress and pain for children, which have been linked with worse clinical outcomes and additional concerns regarding treatment. Guided relaxation techniques have been shown to decrease feelings of anxiety surrounding medical procedures and improve health outcomes. The purpose of this review is to analyze studies involving the potential therapeutic effects of guided relaxation techniques, including guided imagery, clinical hypnosis, progressive muscle relaxation, and deep breathing techniques on children undergoing various procedures, including venipunctures, immunizations, and surgeries. The goal of this manuscript is to review current research and determine the need for future studies on the use of guided relaxation techniques as a standard of care in improving perioperative pain management in children.