Effect of tactile stimulation on the level of consciousness and vital signs of patients with traumatic brain injury: A Quasi- experimental study

Abstract

Introduction: Patients with traumatic brain injury (TBI) are subjected to multiple stressors, including environmental changes, medical treatment, and surgical procedures. Hospitalization in an unfamiliar setting, especially when separated from family members, can increase anxiety and stress, which may adversely influence vital signs and levels of consciousness. Tactile stimulation, when integrated with routine medical management, may contribute to improving patient outcomes. Therefore, the present study aimed to determine the effect of tactile stimulation on the level of consciousness and vital signs among patients with traumatic brain injury.

Materials and Methods: A quasi-experimental study design was conducted in the neurosurgery wards and intensive care units of a tertiary care hospital. A total of 40 patients diagnosed with mild (Glasgow Coma Scale [GCS] score 13–15) and moderate (GCS score 9–12) traumatic brain injury were selected using a consecutive sampling technique and equally allocated into experimental and control group (n = 20 each). The experimental group received tactile stimulation in addition to conservative care daily at 8 a.m., 12 pm, and 4 p.m. for three consecutive days, with each session lasting 15–20 minutes. The control group received only conservative care. Data were collected using a sociodemographic and clinical profile, a vital sign monitoring sheet, and the Glasgow Coma Scale. Statistical analysis was performed using the Chi-square test, Fisher’s exact test, Friedman test, and Mann–Whitney U test.

Results: Comparative analysis revealed no statistically significant differences in vital signs and levels of consciousness between the experimental and control groups during the three-day intervention period.

Conclusion: The findings indicate that three days of tactile stimulation did not produce significant improvements when compared with conservative care alone. The limited duration of intervention may have constrained its effectiveness.