The effect of guided imagery based on health promotion model on quality of life in breast cancer patients: a randomized controlled study

Abstract Breast cancer constitutes a significant public health issue worldwide. The chronic nature of breast cancer and its lifelong impact affect individuals, families, and society in numerous ways. Maintaining a high-quality life after breast cancer requires addressing the individual through a holistic approach. The study aimed to assess the impact of guided imagery practice rooted in the health promotion model, on healthy lifestyle behaviors and the quality of life in breast cancer patients. This randomized controlled experimental study was conducted with 68 breast cancer patients randomly assigned to experimental (34) and control (34) groups. The nursing intervention implemented in the study spanned 12 weeks and involved guided imagery practice supported by training and counseling, all aligned with the principles of the health promotion model. The data were collected with the Descriptive Information Form, the Healthy Lifestyle Behaviors Scale II, the SF-36 Quality of Life Questionnaire, and the evaluation BMI. The post-test scores of the experimental group on the Healthy Lifestyle Behaviors Scale are significantly higher than those of the control group. The SF-36 Quality of Life Questionnaire physical and mental sub-dimension post-test scores of the experimental group were significantly higher than those of the control group. In addition, there was a significant decrease in the weight and BMI of the experimental group compared to the pre-intervention period. The guided imagery, grounded in the health promotion model, have a positive impact on healthy lifestyle behaviors and quality of life for breast cancer patients. The study highlights the significance of holistic and model-based nursing practices for breast cancer patients in achieving and maintaining a healthy and high-quality life. By embracing such approaches, healthcare providers can contribute to the maintenance of a healthy and high-quality life for individuals affected by breast cancer. Clinical trial registration: This study is a randomized, controlled, double-blind pretest-posttest control group experimental study. It was registered on ClinicalTrials.gov, and a protocol number was obtained (Trial number: NCT05484180, Türkiye).