The Effect of Family Empowerment Intervention Through Hand Massage Therapy on Patient’s Anxiety in the High Care Unit of Dr. Hasan Sadikin Hospital Bandung

Abstract

Objective: This study aimed to examine the effect of family empowerment interventions using hand massage therapy on the anxiety levels of patients treated in the High Care Unit (HCU) of Dr. Hasan Sadikin Hospital, Bandung.

Method: A quasi-experimental research design with a one-group pre-test and post-test approach was used. The study involved 32 respondents selected through accidental sampling based on specific inclusion criteria, including patients with stable hemodynamic status and those receiving treatment in a critical care setting for the first time. Data were collected using the State-Trait Anxiety Inventory (STAI) questionnaire to measure anxiety levels before and after the intervention. Data analysis was conducted using the Wilcoxon signed-rank test to assess changes in anxiety levels pre- and post-intervention.

Results: Before receiving the family empowerment intervention through hand massage therapy, the majority of patients (24 respondents or 75.0%) experienced moderate levels of anxiety. Following the intervention, most patients (25 respondents or 78.1%) reported a decrease to mild anxiety levels. Statistical analysis using the Wilcoxon test showed a significant difference between pre- and post-test anxiety scores, with a p-value of 0.000 (p < 0.005).

Conclusion: The findings indicate that hand massage therapy provided by family members as part of a family empowerment intervention significantly reduces anxiety levels in patients receiving care in the High Care Unit. This approach may serve as an effective, non-pharmacological strategy to support emotional well-being in critically ill patients.