Effects of Sensory and Cognitive Stimulation on Recovery After Cardiac Surgery in the ICU A Study Comparing Standard Care, Cognitive, Auditory, and Multisensory Interventions

What this Trial Is About

Researchers are investigating how sensory and cognitive stimulation affect recovery in adults after cardiac surgery in the intensive care unit ICU. The study focuses on whether these interventions reduce anxiety, improve heart and breathing stability, and enhance physical function and independence during early rehabilitation. This trial compares four groups to determine which approach best supports recovery in ICU patients following heart surgery. Participants will be randomly assigned to one of four groups standard ICU care without added stimulation, cognitive exercises involving word games and problem-solving, auditory stimulation through calming music or nature sounds, and multisensory stimulation combining tactile hand therapy balls with lavender or mint scents. Each intervention lasts 30 minutes during early mobilization while sitting in the ICU. During the study, participants will be assessed for heart rate, blood pressure, oxygen levels, anxiety using a visual scale, physical function measures, and satisfaction before and after the intervention sessions. Outcomes include changes in independence levels measured by the Functional Independence Measure, physical function tests, and tolerance for sitting. Measurements are taken before, immediately after, and minutes following the interventions to evaluate immediate and lasting effects throughout recovery until hospital discharge.

Multisensory and Cognitive Interventions in the ICU: Effects on Health and Recovery