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The effects of eye masks and earplugs on the sleep quality and anxiety of hospitalized patients-a randomised controlled trial

Ayse Demiray* & Leyla Khorshid

Background & Objectives: A randomized controlled trial was performed with the purpose of exploring the effects of eye masks and earplugs on the sleep quality and anxiety of hospitalized patients. Methods: The sample consisted of 86 hospitalized patients who were undergoing some kind of cardiovascular operation. Patients were assigned either to the experimental group or the control group. A Patient Identification form, the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index, and the State Anxiety Inventory were administered to patients’ one day before the operation. After surgery, patients in the treatment group were admitted to the clinic and given masks and earplugs to put on. Results: The quality of sleep of patients in the experimental group was found not to have changed and remained at the same level as in the preoperative period. The quality of sleep of patients in the control group was found to have decreased compared to the preoperative period. Patients in both groups experienced moderate anxiety levels preoperatively and mild anxiety levels postoperatively. In conclusion, eye masks and earplugs were effective in promoting sleep but did not affect anxiety levels. Conclusions: It is recommended that eye masks and earplugs be used in patients undergoing cardiovascular operations in order to promote sleep.