Three Distraction Methods for Pain Reduction During Colonoscopy: A Randomized Controlled Trial Evaluating the Effects on Pain and Anxiety.

Purpose: The aim of this study was to compare the effects of distraction methods on pain, anxiety, and satisfaction during a colonoscopy.

Design: This experimental research was conducted as a single-center, randomized, parallel-group trial.

Methods: A total of 120 patients were recruited and randomized into 4 groups (music, stress ball, audiovisual distraction, and control). The data were collected using individual an identification form, observation form, the Visual Analog Scale, and the State-Trait Anxiety Inventory.

Findings: Pain severity during colonoscopy was found to be lower in the intervention (music and audiovisual distraction) groups compared to the stress ball and control groups (P < .001).There was no statistically significant difference between the pre- and postanxiety levels in the intervention groups compared to the control group. After the colonoscopy, satisfaction levels were significantly higher in the music group compared to the audiovisual, control, and stress ball groups (P < .001).

Conclusions: Distraction methods used during colonoscopy were found to reduce pain. Although sedation is widely used during a colonoscopy procedure and is accepted as a general standard, music and VR can be used as effective alternative strategies in reducing pain for colonoscopy patients.