Preparation for undergoing an invasive medical procedure: interacting effects of information and coping style

The present study investigated the interacting effects of an information-based preparation and dispositional desire for information among first-time cardiac catheterization patients. Seventy-two male and female Ss were randomly assigned to either a high- or low-information preparation condition. Dispositional desire for information was assessed with the Krantz Health Opinion Survey and the Miller Behavioral Styles Scale. Desire for information was not associated with a desire for control. When desire for information and preparatory information level were matched, there was less behavioral anxiety, more problem-focused coping, and less emotion-focused coping during catheterization. Coping disposition alone did not affect adjustment during catheterization. Information condition did affect adjustment, with high information resulting in more positive self-statements and less time to complete the procedure.