León-Pizarro, C., Gich, I., Barther, E., Rovirosa, A., Farrús, B., Casas, F., . . . Arcusa, A. (2007). A randomized trial of the effect of training in relaxation and guided imagery techniques in improving psychological and quality-of-life indices for gynecologic and breast brachytherapy patients. Psycho-Oncology, 16, 971–979.

The intervention consisted of relaxation and guided imagery provided to patients during hospitalization. The intervention group received training in relaxation and guided imagery for 10 minutes and was given an individualized cassette for use at home and at the hospital. The recording on the cassette consisted of instructions on head-to-toe relaxation and breathing techniques. Patients were then given descriptions of pleasing images (mountains, beach, etc.) based on information gathered from the patients prior to recording of the cassette. Patients in both groups received training regarding brachytherapy, but only study group patients received training in relaxation and guided imagery.

• The study reported on a sample of 66 patients: 32 in the intervention group and 34 in the control group.
• Patients had gynecologic and breast cancers and were undergoing brachytherapy during hospitalization.

Two hospitals in Spain

A randomized controlled trial design was used.

• Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS)
• Cuestionario de Calidad de Vida (Spanish quality-of-life questionnaire that has been validated in a Spanish population).
• Pain Visual Analog Scale
• Measures were administered prior to, during, and after brachytherapy.

The intervention group demonstrated a statistically significant reduction in anxiety (p = 0.008) compared with the control group.

• Special training or costs included creation of the training program, cassettes, and guided imagery education.
• The small sample size limits generalizability.