Abstract

Heart rate variability (HRV) measurements is a non-invasive technique that can be used to assess autonomic function, especially the balance between sympathetic and vagal activity. The aim of this study was to test the utility of heart-rate variability (HRV) analyses as a means of quantifying autonomic regulation related to academic examination stress. In addition, we investigated the correlations of HRV with anxiety in nursing students. Autonomic function was assessed by heart rate variability and examination stress was assessed by Test Anxiety Inventory. There were three HRV data collections: baseline, during examination period, and after examination period. Analysis showed that during the examination period, a significant reduction in the timing (RMSSD, p＜.05), high frequency (HF, p＜.05), and normalized HF (norm HF, p＜.05) of the HRV was observed, and a significant increased in the heart rate (p＜.05), normalized low frequency (norm LF, p＜.05), and the low frequency to high frequency ratio (LF/HF %). Majority of the changes continued after the examination period. There was correlation between HRV indices and Test Anxiety Inventory scores only during examination period. HRV can be a useful tool in assessing the role of autonomic nervous system fluctuations in healthy individual under stressful situations. (Korean J Str Res 2010;18:11∼17)

• Keywords: Academic examination, Heart rate variability, Anxiety;