State and Trait Anxiety Scores of Patients Receiving Intravitreal Injections.

Area of Science:

• Ophthalmology
• Psychology

Background:

• Intravitreal injections are a common treatment for various ocular conditions.
• Patient anxiety is a significant factor influencing treatment adherence and outcomes.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess state and trait anxiety levels in patients undergoing intravitreal injections.
• To determine if patient experience or sociodemographic factors influence anxiety scores.

Main Methods:

• A study included 113 patients receiving intravitreal ranibizumab or bevacizumab.
• Spielberg's State-Trait Anxiety Inventory questionnaire was used to measure anxiety.
• Anxiety scores were compared between experienced and inexperienced patients, and across sociodemographic groups.

Main Results:

• No statistically significant differences in state or trait anxiety scores were found between experienced and inexperienced patients.
• Anxiety scores did not significantly differ between male and female, employed, and retired patients.
• All patient groups exhibited high anxiety scores, indicating a need for intervention.

Conclusions:

• Sociodemographic status does not appear to significantly impact anxiety levels in patients receiving intravitreal injections.
• High anxiety levels observed underscore the importance of anxiety management strategies in ophthalmic treatments.
• Healthcare providers should proactively address and mitigate patient anxiety during the intravitreal injection treatment course.