A randomized, multicenter study published in 2024 investigated whether a weighted blanket could reduce anxiety in adult patients prior to scheduled surgeries.
A total of 148 people participated. Half of them used a weighted blanket, while the control group used a traditional sheet or a blanket without any extra weight.
The results showed a clear difference between the groups. Patients who used weighted blankets had an average anxiety level of 26.28 points, compared with 38.73 points in the control group. The difference was statistically significant.
The researchers found no significant effect on pain before surgery or on nausea, vomiting, and restlessness after surgery. However, the study shows that the use of a weighted blanket can reduce the anxiety patients experience before a surgical procedure.
Study: Payne D.R. et al. “Effect of Weighted Blankets Versus Traditional Practices on Anxiety and Pain in Patients Undergoing Elective Surgery: A Multicenter Randomized Controlled Trial.” AORN Journal. 2024. Read the full study here.
