The Effect of Web-Based Progressive Relaxation Exercises (PRE) on Perceived Stress and Anxiety on Nurses Working in Corona Epidemic Hospital: A Randomized Controlled Trial

Background: The COVID-19 pandemic has increased stress and anxiety levels in nurses, highlighting the need for effective interventions to prevent complications. Objectives: This study aimed to determine the impact of web-based progressive relaxation exercises (PRE) on the perceived stress and anxiety levels of nurses working in a corona epidemic hospital. Methods: This randomised controlled trial was conducted in March-April 2021 with 64 nurses (32 per group), and the sample size was determined by power analysis. Participants were randomly assigned via computer, including nurses from a corona epidemic hospital who consented. The intervention group practised progressive muscle relaxation (PMR) for 25 - 30 minutes daily for 4 weeks, whereas the control group received no intervention. Both groups completed the Perceived Stress Scale (PSS) and the State-Trait Anxiety Inventory (STAI) online pre- and post-intervention. Data were analysed with SPSS 23.0 using the Shapiro-Wilk test for normality, Independent samples t-test for continuous variables, chi-square test for categorical variables, and paired samples t-test for pre- and post-test comparisons in the intervention group (P < 0.05). Results: Statistically significant decreases in PSS and STAI levels were observed in the intervention group (P = 0.006 and P = 0.002, respectively). No significant changes were seen in the control group. The intervention group showed a significant decrease in STAI scores compared to the control group (P = 0.037). Conclusions: Results showed that web-based progressive relaxation significantly reduced stress and anxiety in nurses, suggesting that accessible interventions can improve mental health in high-stress healthcare settings.