Assessment of Patient Comfort and Anxiety in Digital versus Traditional Radiography Procedures

Thesis Abstract

The increasing adoption of digital radiography has transformed diagnostic imaging practices, yet limited research exists regarding patient-centered outcomes such as comfort and anxiety experienced during radiographic procedures, which are critical to ensuring quality care and patient compliance. This study aims to empirically assess and compare patient comfort and anxiety levels between digital and traditional radiography procedures, with the primary objectives of quantifying patient-reported discomfort and anxiety, identifying demographic and procedural factors influencing these experiences, and evaluating the potential impact on overall patient satisfaction. Guided by the Health Belief Model and the Transactional Model of Stress and Coping, this quantitative, cross-sectional study employed a descriptive correlational design to explore relationships between radiography modality and patient psychological and physical responses. The target population comprised adult outpatients scheduled for radiographic procedures at a major metropolitan hospital. A stratified random sampling technique was employed to select a sample of 300 patients, with 150 undergoing digital radiography and 150 undergoing traditional radiography. Data collection utilized validated instruments, including a Likert-scale Patient Comfort Questionnaire (PCQ) adapted for radiographic procedures and the State-Trait Anxiety Inventory (STAI), alongside demographic and procedural data sheets. Before and immediately after the radiography, participants completed the instruments to capture changes in anxiety and comfort levels. The reliability of the instruments was confirmed through Cronbach’s alpha coefficients exceeding 0.85, while content validity was established via expert panel review. Data analysis involved descriptive statistics to delineate sample characteristics, followed by inferential techniques such as independent samples t-tests to compare mean comfort and anxiety scores between groups, and multiple regression analysis to identify predictors of discomfort and anxiety. ANOVA tested for differences across demographic subgroups, with statistical significance set at p<0.05. The study also planned for qualitative thematic analysis of open-ended responses to provide contextual insight into patient experiences. Expected findings include statistically significant reductions in both anxiety and discomfort among patients subjected to digital radiography compared to traditional methods, after controlling for demographic variables. It is anticipated that factors such as prior radiography experience, age, perceived radiation risk, and procedural duration will significantly predict patient discomfort and anxiety levels. These results are expected to contribute novel findings to the field by empirically linking radiography modality with patient psychological well-being and comfort, thus filling a gap identified in existing literature that predominantly focuses on technical performance and clinical outcomes. The study’s contribution to knowledge lies in providing evidence-based insights into how technological advances in radiography influence patient-centered outcomes. These insights can inform clinical protocols, optimize patient preparation procedures, and promote the adoption of patient-friendly practices within radiology departments. The research also offers a foundation for developing targeted interventions aimed at reducing radiography-related anxiety, thus improving overall patient experience. The main conclusion underscores the importance of integrating patient comfort and anxiety management into radiographic practice, especially as digital technology becomes more prevalent. Based on the findings, recommendations include implementing pre-procedural education to demystify digital radiography, training radiographers in patient communication techniques, and considering procedural modifications to enhance comfort. Suggestions for further research include longitudinal studies to assess the long-term impact of digital radiography on patient satisfaction and the exploration of psychological interventions for anxious patients. Overall, this research advances understanding of the psychosocial dimension of radiographic procedures, emphasizing a patient-centered approach in technological integration within medical imaging.