Application of Finger Grip Relaxation Therapy in Mrs. S with Recurrent Colon Tumor Undergoing Laparotomy Removal at the Central Surgery Ward of RSUD Labuang Baji, Makassar

Abstract

Colon cancer is one of the gastrointestinal cancers with high morbidity and mortality rates, both globally and in Indonesia. Despite advances in surgical and adjuvant therapies, recurrent colon tumors remain a clinical challenge that often requires repeated surgical procedures. Postoperative patients commonly experience incisional pain, anxiety, and sleep disturbances, which may hinder recovery. Therefore, simple non-pharmacological interventions are needed to support pain management, one of which is finger-hold relaxation therapy. Objective: To describe the implementation of perioperative nursing care with finger-hold relaxation therapy in a patient with recurrent colon tumor mass undergoing laparotomy removal. Method: This study used a case study approach on Mrs. S, a 54-year-old female patient treated at the Central Surgical Installation of Labuang Baji Regional General Hospital, Makassar. Comprehensive nursing care was provided during the preoperative, intraoperative, and postoperative phases. The focus of the intervention was on nursing diagnoses of acute pain, risk of bleeding, and risk of infection. Finger-hold relaxation therapy was performed by gently holding each finger for 3–5 minutes combined with controlled breathing, along with patient education and continuous monitoring. Results: The patient showed a decrease in pain intensity from 7 to 6 on the Visual Analogue Scale (VAS), appeared more relaxed, less anxious, and demonstrated improved coping ability. During the course of care, no signs of bleeding or infection were observed, confirming the effectiveness of this simple intervention in supporting patient comfort. Conclusion: The application of finger-hold relaxation therapy proved to be effective, safe, and easy to implement as a non-pharmacological intervention to reduce pain and enhance comfort in postoperative patients. This intervention is recommended for use in perioperative nursing practice as an effort to support patient recovery.