Abstract | Important psychological aspects of endoscopy include physiological discomfort, emotional distress and patient satisfaction. Anxiety associated with endoscopy reflects concerns regarding the examination itself, as well as its outcome. Sedation or analgesia, or both, are often given to overcome discomfort and distress, but place the patient at risk of side-effects. There has, therefore, been much debate concerning the need for sedation or analgesia in endoscopy. When asked about their preferences, the majority of patients continue to request some kind of sedation. Research into alternatives to traditional benzodiazepine and opiate intravenous medication has explored the use of nitrous oxide and oxygen inhalation, acupuncture and hypnosis. Psychological techniques can be used to assist patients in coping with the stress of endoscopy by providing a variety of strategies which redress the balance between perceived threat and ability to cope with it. This review assesses the effectiveness of psychological interventions, including the provision of information, relaxation, cognitive-behavioural approaches and modelling, and takes into account the differences between patients and their preferred coping styles. |
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