Özet:

Aim: This study aims to determine the effect of progressive relaxation exercises and peer support program on anxiety and sleep levels in midwifery students during the COVID-19 pandemic. Material and Method: This is a randomized controlled interventional study. The study consisted of midwifery students (n=360). One hundred and four students who met the inclusion criteria were divided into three groups: the progressive relaxation exercise group (PRE) (n=35), the peer support program group (PSP) (n=34), and the control group (n=35). The PRE and PSP groups were provided with online support for 30 minutes a day for 30 days. In addition, the PSP group was given 24/7support by peer trainers on necessary issues by sharing their contact information. Data were collected at the beginning and end of the study. The data collection tools included a descriptive data form with questions about socio-demographic characteristics, the Spielberger State-Trait Anxiety Inventory (STAI-I-II), and the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI). Results: The groups were independent and homogeneous in terms of the specified characteristics. There was no statistically significant difference between the groups in terms of the scores from the pretest administration of the STAI-I and PSQI (p>0,05). The scores of the PRE and PSP groups from the posttest administration of the STAI-I and PUKI were found to be significantly lower than those of the control group (F=9,749; P=0,000; χ2=15,382; P=0,000, respectively). Conclusion: PRE and PSP are effective methods for improving midwifery students’ sleep quality and anxiety levels during the COVID-19 pandemic.

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