Effectiveness of non‐pharmacological interventions in improving sleep quality after cardiac surgery: A systematic review and meta‐analysis

Abstract

Background

Sleep disturbance is highly prevalent among post-operative cardiac patients, with negative impacts on surgical recovery and rehabilitation. Post-operative pain and anxiety commonly seen in cardiac surgery patients are associated with poor sleep. Sleep medications commonly used are not ideal with prolonged usage, and non-pharmacological interventions can be good alternatives or complements.

Aim

To examine effectiveness of non-pharmacological interventions in post-operative cardiac settings on sleep quality, pain intensity and anxiety.

Design

Systematic review and meta-analysis.

Methods

PubMed, CENTRAL, Embase, CINAHL, Scopus, CNKI and ProQuest Dissertations and Theses were searched on 12 October 2022. Randomised controlled trials of non-pharmacological interventions examining sleep quality for adult post-operative cardiac patients were included. Included studies were appraised using Cochrane Risk of Bias tool version 1. Meta-analysis was conducted using RevMan version 5.4.1, and heterogeneity was assessed using I ² statistics and Cochran Q's test.

Results

Eighteen studies involving 1701 participants were identified. Coronary artery bypass graft was most common. Non-pharmacological interventions varied in types and duration. All intervention groups were compared to usual care, placebo, no interventions or active comparators. Statistically significant improvement in sleep quality (SMD = −.91, 95% CI = −1.17 to −.65) was found among intervention groups that explored cognitive behavioural therapy, relaxation techniques, exercise, massage, acupressure, aromatherapy, music, eye mask and earplugs. Pain intensity was reduced (SMD = −.63, 95% CI = −1.05 to −.20) with cognitive behavioural therapy, relaxation techniques, massage, music and eye mask. Anxiety was improved (SMD = −.21, 95% CI = −.38 to −.04) with exercise and music.

Conclusion

The overall use of non-pharmacological interventions can optimise sleep after cardiac surgery. Further research with greater methodological rigour is needed to investigate different intervention-related characteristics while considering potential confounders.

Relevance to Clinical Practice

Post-operative cardiac settings can consider incorporating non-pharmacological interventions. Patients and healthcare providers can be better informed about the use of such interventions to improve sleep.

Registration

PROSPERO CRD42022384991.