Evaluation of Stress Scores Throughout Radiological Biopsies.

Area of Science:

• Radiology
• Psychological Medicine
• Medical Procedures

Background:

• Ultrasound-guided biopsies are common but induce patient trauma, stress, and anxiety.
• Assessing patient stress levels during radiologic biopsy waiting periods is crucial.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate stress and anxiety levels in patients awaiting radiologic biopsy procedures.
• To identify factors contributing to patient stress during biopsy waiting periods.

Main Methods:

• A prospective study of 100 patients (35 female, 65 male) undergoing biopsy procedures.
• Utilized the Adult Resilience Scale, Depression-Anxiety-Stress Scale (DASS 42), and State-Trait Anxiety Inventory (STAI-I and STAI-II).
• Analyzed data based on biopsy site (neck, thorax, abdomen, bone), number of procedures, and education level.

Main Results:

• Patients undergoing neck biopsies exhibited moderate to severe depression and stress.
• Significantly high rates of severe and extremely severe anxiety were observed, particularly for neck biopsies.
• Anxiety scores followed the order: neck > bone > thorax > abdomen.

Conclusions:

• Neck and bone biopsies are associated with the highest levels of patient anxiety.
• Proactive communication and briefing by healthcare personnel can mitigate psychological distress.
• Effective patient communication is vital for managing anxiety and enhancing treatment efficacy.