Evaluation of an Anxiety Reduction Tool During Thyroid Biopsies

Launched by NOVA SCOTIA HEALTH AUTHORITY · Apr 9, 2024

Keywords

ClinConnect Summary

This clinical trial is looking at a new way to help reduce anxiety for patients undergoing thyroid biopsies, which are tests to check for problems in the thyroid gland. Participants in the study will be asked to fill out a questionnaire to share how anxious they feel before and after the biopsy. They will be randomly assigned to two groups: one group will use stress balls to help distract them during the procedure, while the other group will not use any anxiety-reducing tool.

To join this trial, participants need to be at least 18 years old and scheduled for a thyroid biopsy using local anesthesia (a numbing medication). They should also be able to provide consent for both the procedure and the study. However, individuals who have had a previous biopsy, have more than one thyroid lump that needs testing, or are allergic to the materials used for stress balls are not eligible. The study aims to see if using stress balls can make the experience less stressful for patients, ultimately helping them feel more comfortable during their biopsy.

Gender

ALL

Eligibility criteria

• Inclusion Criteria:
• • 1. Age ≥ 18
• • 2. Subjects undergoing thyroid biopsies under local anesthetic that can provide consent to treatment and for the research study.
• Exclusion Criteria:
• • 1. Previous biopsy experience
• • 2. Greater than one (1) thyroid lesion requiring biopsy
• • 3. Known allergy or sensitivity to stress ball material or cleaning solutions.