RecruitingNot ApplicableNCT07328477

Box Breathing for Anxiety, Pain and Nausea in ERCP Patients

Effect of Box Breathing Technique on Anxiety, Pain, and Nausea in Patients Undergoing Endoscopic Retrograde Cholangiopancreatography (ERCP): A Randomized Controlled Trial

Sponsor

Acibadem University

Enrollment

70 participants

Start Date

Sep 15, 2025

Study Type

INTERVENTIONAL

Conditions

Pain Anxiety Endoscopic Retrograde Cholangiopancreatography Nausea

Summary

This study aims to evaluate the effects of a non-pharmacological breathing technique, known as box breathing, on anxiety, pain, and nausea in adult patients undergoing endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP). ERCP is an invasive endoscopic procedure that may cause significant physical and psychological discomfort, including increased anxiety, pain, and nausea. Participants are randomly assigned to either an intervention group receiving standard care plus box breathing training or a control group receiving standard care alone. The box breathing technique consists of four equal phases of breathing (inhale, hold, exhale, hold), each lasting four seconds. Anxiety, pain, and nausea levels are assessed before ERCP and within the first 24 hours after the procedure. The results of this study may contribute to improving patient comfort and supporting the use of simple, nurse-led interventions in clinical practice.

Eligibility

Min Age: 18 Years

Inclusion Criteria5

Aged 18 years or older
Scheduled to undergo endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP)
Able to communicate verbally
Able to understand and perform the box breathing technique
Willing to participate and provide written informed consent

Exclusion Criteria5

Cognitive impairment or psychiatric disorders affecting cooperation
Hearing or communication problems that prevent understanding instructions
Use of sedative or anxiolytic medication before ERCP other than standard sedation
Previous participation in breathing or relaxation training programs
Emergency ERCP procedures

Interventions

BEHAVIORALBox Breathing Technique

Box breathing is a structured breathing technique consisting of four equal phases: inhalation for four seconds, breath holding for four seconds, exhalation for four seconds, and breath holding again for four seconds. The technique is taught by a nurse one day before ERCP and practiced approximately 30 minutes before the procedure.