Patients undergoing chemotherapy face numerous of psychological stressors that have a significant effect
on their body image. Aim of the study: This study aimed to evaluate the effect of autogenic relaxation program on
psychological stress and body image among patients undergoing chemotherapy. Design: A quasi-experimental
correlational research design, with one group pre and posttest assessment, was used in conducting the present
study. Setting: The study was conducted at the oncology unit at benha university hospital, in benha city Qalubia
governorate. This unit is located in the medicine department, it contain 2 wards (one male and one female) which
have critical room and chemotherapy room. Sample: A purposive sample of (40) patients undergoing
chemotherapy was selected from the above mentioned settings. Tools for data collection: Data were collected by
using three tools. Tool (I): Structured Interview Questionnaire to assess socio-demographic and clinical
characteristics. Tool (II): Stress Scale and Tool (III): Body image scale. Results: Findings indicated that there were
highly statistically significant reduction in the severity of total stress and highly statistically significant
improvement in the level of body image post program implementation than before. Also, there was a highly
statistically significant negative correlation between total stress score and total body image score of studied
patients’ pre and post program implementation. Conclusion: The autogenic relaxation program had a positive
effect on psychological stress and body image among studied patients undergoing chemotherapy. The study
recommended that Generalization of autogenic relaxation program for all patients undergoing chemotherapy in all
hospitals to alleviate their psychological stress and improve body image |
