Written Educational Material Relieves Anxiety after Endoscopic Biopsy: A Prospective Randomized Controlled Study

Area of Science:

• Medical Education
• Patient Psychology
• Gastroenterology

Background:

• Endoscopic biopsies can cause significant patient anxiety due to waiting for results.
• Managing patient anxiety is crucial for improving the overall healthcare experience.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the impact of written educational materials on patient anxiety levels post-endoscopic biopsy.
• To compare anxiety scores between patients receiving educational materials and those who do not.

Main Methods:

• A randomized controlled trial involving 83 patients divided into three groups: intervention (biopsy with educational material), biopsy only, and control.
• Anxiety levels were measured using Spielberger's State-Trait Anxiety Inventory (STAI) at multiple time points.
• Statistical analysis compared STAI scores across groups and over time.

Main Results:

• No significant baseline differences in anxiety were observed between groups.
• The intervention group showed a trend towards lower STAI-state scores one day post-procedure compared to the biopsy-only group.
• A statistically significant decrease in STAI-state anxiety was observed from pre- to post-procedure exclusively within the intervention group.

Conclusions:

• Written educational materials may be an effective tool for mitigating anxiety in patients undergoing endoscopic biopsy.
• Further research can explore optimal methods for delivering educational content to patients.