The Effect of Hand Massage on Pain, Anxiety, and Comfort Levels of Intensive Care Patients: A Randomized Controlled Trial

Background and aims: Hand massage is a nonpharmacological nursing intervention that reduces pain, anxiety, and discomfort.This study aimed to evaluate the effects of hand massage on pain, anxiety, and comfort levels in neurological intensive care unit (ICU) patients, contributing to evidence-based nursing practice.Patients and methods: This randomized controlled trial was conducted in a neurology ICU in Turkey.A total of 66 patients were randomly assigned to intervention and control groups.The intervention group received 12 hand massage sessions over six consecutive days (twice daily).Pain, anxiety, and comfort were assessed using the visual analog scale (VAS), the Spielberger state-trait anxiety inventory (STAI), and the general comfort scale-short form (GCS-SF).The control group received standard care.Data were analyzed using one-way ANOVA, the Kruskal-Wallis H test, and the Bonferroni post-hoc analysis.Results: Patients in the intervention group demonstrated significantly reduced pain and anxiety levels and increased comfort at both 15 and 60 minutes postintervention compared with the control group (p < 0.05).Conclusion: Hand massage based on Kolcaba's comfort theory is a safe, low-cost, and effective intervention that reduces pain and anxiety while enhancing comfort in neurological ICU patients.Integrating hand massage into routine care may support holistic symptom management in critical care settings.