What this Trial Is About

Researchers are investigating the effects of using a stress ball during the Non-Stress Test (NST) on anxiety and fetal well-being in women with high-risk pregnancies. High-risk pregnancies involve increased health risks for both mother and fetus due to conditions like diabetes, hypertension, or threats of premature birth. The study aims to understand if squeezing a stress ball during NST, a common fetal monitoring procedure, can reduce anxiety and improve outcomes compared to routine care without intervention. Participants are divided into two groups: an intervention group who will be instructed to squeeze and release a soft stress ball in a specific breathing pattern during the approximately 20-minute NST, and a control group who will receive standard hospital care without the stress ball. The stress ball is a soft, handheld device about 6 cm in diameter, designed to relieve stress and muscle tension through squeezing. The practice involves coordinated breathing and focus on the ball throughout the NST. Women taking part will have their anxiety levels measured 5 minutes before and 5 minutes after the NST procedure. Researchers will collect data on fetal well-being and anxiety to evaluate the stress ball's impact. Participants must attend the NST procedure and follow instructions during the test. Safety monitoring will be conducted, and the study includes assessments related to maternal anxiety and fetal health during the monitoring period.

The Effect of Stress Ball Intervention During Non-Stress Test on Anxiety and Fetal Well-Being in High-Risk Pregnancy