The purpose of this randomized controlled trial is to evaluate the effect of acupressure on respiratory performance and pain levels in adult patients who have undergone open-heart surgery. Pulmonary complications and severe pain are common after cardiac surgery, often limiting the effectiveness of standard deep breathing exercises such as incentive spirometry. This study investigates whether applying acupressure-a non-invasive complementary therapy-can help manage postoperative pain and improve respiratory capacity. By potentially reducing pain without the respiratory side effects associated with pharmacological medications, acupressure may enable patients to perform their breathing exercises more effectively and support their overall recovery.
Aged 18 years and older.
Undergoing cardiac surgery for the first time.
Extubated and hemodynamically stable in the postoperative period.
A Glasgow Coma Scale (GCS) score of 15.
Development of postoperative complications (e.g., severe arrhythmia, need for re-intubation, active bleeding).
Receiving sedation in the intensive care unit.
Presence of chronic pain syndrome or regular use of opioids/analgesics.
Known psychiatric disorders.