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

Plain Language Summary

Simplified for easier understanding

This study is testing whether a simple breathing technique called "box breathing" (slow, controlled breathing in a box pattern: inhale, hold, exhale, hold) can reduce anxiety, pain, and nausea in patients undergoing a procedure called ERCP — a scope procedure used to examine and treat problems in the bile ducts and pancreas. **You may be eligible if...** - You are 18 or older - You are scheduled to undergo an ERCP procedure - You can communicate verbally and understand how to do box breathing - You are willing to give written consent to participate **You may NOT be eligible if...** - You have cognitive impairment or a psychiatric disorder that prevents cooperation - You have hearing or communication problems that prevent you from understanding the technique - You are already taking sedative or anti-anxiety medications before the procedure (other than standard sedation) - You have previously participated in breathing or relaxation training programs - Your ERCP is being performed as an emergency Talk to your doctor to see if this trial is right for you.

This summary was AI-generated to explain the trial in plain language. It is not medical advice. Always discuss eligibility with your doctor before enrolling in a clinical trial.

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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.