The effect of videotaped or written information on Chinese gastroscopy patients' clinical outcomes

The researchers compared videotaped information with specific written information on Chinese out-patients' post-gastroscopy anxiety and satisfaction levels. We randomly allocated 30 out-patients having scheduled gastroscopy to receive videotaped or detailed written information, and assessed the effect of the information on patients' post-gastroscopy BP, pulse and self-reported anxiety and satisfaction levels. Patients receiving videotaped information had better post-gastroscopy outcomes on all measures, but the results were not statistically significant. BP and Pulse rates increased after the intervention within each group but the changes were statistically significant in the group receiving detailed written information only. A-state scores decreased in both groups after the intervention but these changes were not statistically significant. Education and age significantly influenced post-gastroscopy state anxiety scores. The researchers conclude that information may have little effect on Chinese gastroscopy patients' outcomes, irrespective of the method of providing it. Education and age may influence patients' reports of anxiety.