Related Experiment Videos
Can precolposcopy education increase knowledge and decrease anxiety?
C Tomaino-Brunner1, M C Freda, K Damus
1Sound Shore Medical Center of Westchester, New Rochelle, NY, USA.
Journal of Obstetric, Gynecologic, and Neonatal Nursing : JOGNN
|December 4, 1998
Summary
An educational handout significantly improved knowledge about colposcopy for women with abnormal Papanicolaou (Pap) tests. However, the intervention did not reduce anxiety levels before the procedure.
Area of Science:
- Women's Health
- Medical Education
- Gynecologic Oncology
Background:
- Abnormal Papanicolaou (Pap) tests necessitate colposcopy, a procedure often associated with patient anxiety.
- Understanding the reason for and procedure of colposcopy is crucial for patient preparedness.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the effectiveness of a mailed educational intervention on knowledge and anxiety in women awaiting colposcopy.
- To assess the impact of patient education on understanding the colposcopy procedure and its indications.
Main Methods:
- A randomized controlled trial was conducted with women scheduled for colposcopy.
- The intervention group received a one-page informational handout via mail prior to their appointment.
- Knowledge was assessed via interview, and anxiety was measured using the Spielberger State/Trait Anxiety Inventory.
Main Results:
- Women receiving the educational handout demonstrated significantly higher knowledge regarding the reason for their visit and the colposcopy procedure.
- No statistically significant difference in mean anxiety scores was observed between the intervention and control groups.
Conclusions:
- A simple, mailed educational intervention effectively enhanced colposcopy knowledge in women with abnormal Pap test results.
- While patient education is vital, further research is needed to identify effective strategies for reducing pre-colposcopy anxiety.
- This intervention is replicable by nurses in various healthcare settings to improve patient understanding.