The Effect of Video Information on Amniocentesis-Related Anxiety Levels: A Case-Control Study

Abstract

Objective: The aim of this study was to investigate whether video information was more effective in reducing pre-amniocentesis anxiety levels compared to verbal information. Material and Methods: A total of 94 pregnant women scheduled for amniocentesis were randomly assigned to either a video information group or a verbal information group. Participants completed the State-Trait Anxiety Inventory (STAI I and II) and the Amsterdam Preoperative Anxiety and Information Scale (APAIS) at the time of the first application and immediately before the procedure. The video information group received a video that explained the procedure and answered common questions, while the verbal information group received similar information from a healthcare professional. Results: The groups were similar in terms of sociodemographic, medical, and obstetric characteristics. STAI-II scores were similar in both groups (p=0.834). In addition, STAI-I and APAIS scores were similar in both groups (p=0.309 and p=0.694, respectively). Both groups showed a significant reduction in their anxiety levels after receiving information. However, the video information group showed a greater reduction in STAI-I scores (p=0.0001) and APAIS scores (p=0.001) compared to the verbal information group. While there was no change in the information request in the verbal group (p=0.654), it was observed that the information request decreased in the video group (p=0.0001). Conclusion: The results suggest that video information may be more effective in reducing pre-amniocentesis anxiety levels compared to verbal information. Healthcare professionals should consider incorporating video materials as part of their pre-procedure education to help reduce patient anxiety.