Benson relaxation technique for reducing acute pain in patients with post-caesarean section surgery

Abstract

Caesarean section is a surgical alternative used when vaginal delivery is not feasible due to maternal, fetal, or birth canal-related factors. This procedure involves making an incision through the abdominal and uterine walls to deliver the baby. While effective, caesarean section surgery often results in significant postoperative pain at the incision site, necessitating both pharmacological and non-pharmacological pain management strategies. One non-pharmacological intervention that can be applied to patients experiencing acute postoperative pain is the Benson relaxation technique, which combines deep breathing and focused awareness to elicit a relaxation response. This case study aims to describe the application of nursing care using the Benson relaxation technique to reduce acute pain in post-caesarean section patients. Two patients were managed for acute pain: Patient A, a 27-year-old woman (P2A0) who underwent a caesarean section due to prolonged second-stage labour, and Patient B, a 35-year-old woman (P2A0) with an indication of uterine inertia. Both patients received the Benson relaxation technique on the first postoperative day. Following the intervention, Patient A’s pain intensity decreased from a score of 6 to 5, while Patient B’s pain score decreased from 4 to 3. Both patients appeared more relaxed and were able to engage in light activities and ambulate independently. These outcomes suggest that the Benson relaxation technique is an effective and safe complementary approach for reducing acute postoperative pain in caesarean section patients.

Keywords:  Benson relaxation technique, complementary therapy, hospital care, maternity nursing, pain management