The Effect of Stress Ball and Breathing Exercises on Reducing Fear and Pain Associated with PCR Testing

The COVID-19 pandemic continues to be one of the longest lasting pandemics experienced in recent times. Although the disease shows symptoms in different ways, the most effective diagnostic method known is the PCR test. This procedure is an unknown test method that many people have never had in their lifetime. Uncertainty in any subject causes stress and fear in the person. When the suspicion of a disease is added to this situation, the situation can reach even more serious dimensions. For this reason, it can be said that the PCR test can cause many problems, especially fear and pain. The most important health professional that the patient can reach before, during and after the test is the nurse. In order for the nurse to complete the test in a short time and with success, it may be necessary for the applicants to keep their fear levels under control and to support their fear management. In addition, the nurse plays an important role in the assessment and management of pain. In the literature review, no study was found on reducing the fear and pain of the adolescents who gave the PCR Test. It is also thought that breathing exercises and stress ball can be an advantageous method in reducing pain and fear, considering their easy accessibility, affordable cost and long-term use. For this reason, this study was planned to determine the effect of stress ball and breathing exercises on the management of fear and pain that may occur due to PCR testing.