Using Guided Imagery to Assist with Relaxation
Every nurse knows what it is like to have a patient who is anxious about his/her disease state and/or upcoming tests or surgeries. Guided imaging (GI) is a therapeutic process that uses the power of imagination to elicit a psychophysiological response to enhance healing and promote health and well-being. GI may also be used to help patients learn to relax.
Before helping a patient relax using GI, the nurse refers to Nursing Reference Center Nursing Practice & Skill article, "Guided Imagery, Assisting with Relaxation" and learns to educate the patient about GI. She begins the session with a relaxation exercise such as diaphragmatic deep breathing. Later in the session she helps the patient relax by imagining him/herself in a pleasant, peaceful location while periodically reminding the patient to focus on breathing.
Helping a patient relax using GI may result in a heightened sense of awareness, empowerment, and well-being. The patient's anxiety may be relieved and the patient may require less medications.
Nurses are in a unique position to help patients minimize their anxiety about their disease process by learning to help patients use GI.
Please login to your Nursing Reference Center subscription to read the Nursing Practice & Skill on "Guided Imagery, Assisting with Relaxation" and other topics on GI, including "Guided Imagery, Assisting with Alleviation of Pain and Promotion of Healing," "Guided Imagery, Assisting with Motor Rehabilitation," and "Guided Imagery, Preparation for Surgery."
