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E-Patient Counseling Trial E-PACO: Computer Based Education versus Nurse Counseling for Patients to Prepare for Colonoscopy
Published on: August 1, 2019
A Web-based Multimedia Program Before Colonoscopy Increased Knowledge and Decreased Anxiety, Sedation Requirement,
Siddhartha Parker1,2, Jonathan Zipursky2, Helen Ma2
1Section of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Dartmouth-Hitchcock Medical Center, Lebanon.
A web-based program improved colonoscopy preparation by increasing patient knowledge and reducing anxiety. This led to shorter procedure times and less medication use, potentially boosting screening rates.
Area of Science:
- Gastroenterology
- Medical Education
- Patient Engagement
Background:
- Colonoscopy screening for colorectal cancer relies on patient understanding of procedures.
- Standard pre-procedure information may not fully prepare patients.
- Patient engagement is crucial for successful colonoscopy outcomes.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess a web-based multimedia program's impact on patient anxiety, perception, and knowledge regarding colonoscopy.
- To evaluate the effect of this engagement program on colonoscopy procedure outcomes.
Main Methods:
- Randomized controlled trial comparing a web-based program to standard pre-procedure materials.
- Surveys assessed patient knowledge, perception, and anxiety (State Trait Anxiety Inventory).
- Procedure data collected included medication doses and duration.
Main Results:
- Experimental group showed higher correct knowledge answers (82% vs. 74%, P=0.0003).
- Reduced anxiety reported by 58% in the experimental group, with lower State Trait Anxiety Inventory scores (P=0.026).
- Less midazolam used and shorter procedure times observed in the experimental group (P=0.0035 and P=0.024, respectively).
Conclusions:
- Web-based multimedia engagement effectively decreases patient anxiety and improves knowledge before colonoscopy.
- The intervention reduces medication needs and procedure time, enhancing efficiency.
- This program can improve patient comfort, potentially increasing colonoscopy screening rates and reducing recovery time.
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