Introduction: One of the most frequently used methods for the diagnosis and treatment of heart diseases is cardiac catheterization which causes anxiety and pain in patients. Relaxation techniques such as guided imagery can make patients feel more relaxed. The present study aimed to determine the effect of guided imagery on anxiety and pain levels of patients undergoing cardiac catheterization.

  Methods: In this randomized clinical study, 62 people undergoing coronary angiography were assigned into experimental and control groups. In the experimental group, guided imagery was applied. Data was collected using the State-Trait Anxiety Inventory (STAI) and a numerical pain scale. The collected data was analyzed using SPSS 20.

  Results: The average age of participants was 57.06±8.9 years and 59.67% of them were male . Mean level of anxiety in the guided imagery group after the intervention decreased significantly (p<0.001). The mean level of pain after the intervention in the guided imagery group was lower but this difference was not statistically significant.

  Conclusion: Relaxation and guided imagery are effective in reducing anxiety in patients undergoing cardiac angiography . It is therefore recommended that this method be used before cardiac catheterization.