Effect of Regular Smooth Breathing on the Intensity of Pain Caused by Dressing Change in Patients with Second-Degree Burns: A Clinical Trial

Abstract

Background: The pain caused by wound dressing is common in burn patients. Using respiratory techniques is one of the non-pharmacological methods of pain control that has remained understudied in burn patients. Objectives: The aim of this study was to probe the effect of regular smooth breathing on the pain induced by dressing change in patients with second-degree burns. Methods: This clinical trial was performed on 30 qualified patients with second-degree burns. The subjects were chosen through random sampling and assigned to experimental (n = 15) and control (n = 15) groups. The respiratory intervention was carried out in four dressing change sessions for the experimental group while the control group received only the routine care. The data were collected using a demographic questionnaire and a visual analog scale (VAS) for measuring pain intensity. The results were subsequently analyzed in SPSS 23 using the chi-square test, Fisher-exact test, and independent t-test. Results: Pain intensity after dressing was significantly lower in experimental group than control group in all four dressing sessions (P < 0.05). Conclusions: Regular smooth breathing reduces the pain caused by dressing burn injuries. Therefore, this intervention is recommended for burn patients.