Which relaxation techniques are commonly used to reduce patient stress?

• A. Distraction techniques
• B. Diaphragmatic breathing and progressive muscle relaxation
• C. Medication administration
• D. Isolation from staff

Answer: (B)

Relaxation techniques that reduce physiological arousal are commonly used to help patients cope with stress. Diaphragmatic breathing, a deep, slow breath that expands the abdomen, activates the parasympathetic nervous system, slows the heart rate, lowers blood pressure, and diminishes anxiety. Pairing this with progressive muscle relaxation—tensing a muscle group briefly and then releasing it to feel the contrast between tension and relaxation—reduces overall muscle tension and promotes a sense of calm. Together, these techniques target both breathing patterns and muscle tension, two key components of the stress response, and they empower patients to self-regulate during stressful moments. While distraction can help by shifting attention, it doesn’t elicit the same direct relaxation response as these methods. Medication is a pharmacologic approach, not a relaxation technique, and isolating the patient from staff would likely increase stress rather than alleviate it.