Undergoing colonoscopy as experienced by adolescents.

Area of Science:

• Gastroenterology
• Adolescent Medicine
• Qualitative Research

Background:

• Colonoscopy is a vital diagnostic tool for adolescents with gastrointestinal symptoms.
• Understanding the adolescent experience of colonoscopy is crucial for improving patient care.

Purpose of the Study:

• To describe the phenomenon of undergoing colonoscopy as experienced by adolescents.
• To explore the emotional and psychological impact of colonoscopy on adolescent patients.

Main Methods:

• Qualitative study employing Reflective Lifeworld Research with a phenomenological approach.
• Face-to-face interviews conducted with 17 adolescents post-colonoscopy.

Main Results:

• Colonoscopy experience is characterized by emotional conflict, a desire for answers, and concerns about results.
• Key constituents include vulnerability, symptom explanation opportunities, and information sensitivity.

Conclusions:

• Colonoscopy holds significant meaning for adolescents beyond a mere examination.
• Emotional responses are significant, necessitating individualized psychological preparation.
• Adolescents require understanding of the link between their symptoms, body, and the colonoscopy procedure.