Sensory Isolation to Reduce Anxiety During Bronchoscopy

TThis randomized controlled trial aims to evaluate the effect of sensory isolation on anxiety and physiological parameters in patients undergoing fiberoptic bronchoscopy. The intervention involves the use of an eye mask and earplugs to reduce environmental stimuli. The study will comparatively assess the effects of sensory isolation on anxiety levels and physiological parameters, including blood pressure, heart rate, and oxygen saturation.

This study is designed as a parallel-group, randomized controlled trial to evaluate the effect of sensory isolation on anxiety and physiological parameters in patients undergoing fiberoptic bronchoscopy. The research will be conducted at the Ege University Faculty of Medicine, Department of Chest Diseases, Bronchoscopy Unit, and the Suat Seren Chest Diseases and Thoracic Surgery Training and Research Hospital. Participants who meet the inclusion criteria and provide written informed consent will be randomly assigned in a 1:1 ratio to either the intervention group (sensory isolation using an eye mask and earplugs) or the control group (standard care). To ensure balanced distribution between groups and to minimize potential confounding effects on anxiety and physiological responses, stratified block randomization will be applied based on age group (under 65 years and 65 years and older) and gender. Within each stratum, randomization sequences will be generated using Random.org (List Randomizer) with a fixed block size of six (3 intervention, 3 control). Allocation concealment will be ensured through the use of sequentially numbered, opaque, sealed envelopes prepared separately for each stratum. At the time of enrollment, participants will be assigned to groups according to the next envelope in sequence, thereby preventing foreknowledge of group allocation and minimizing selection bias. The randomization and reporting processes of the study will be conducted in accordance with the CONSORT (Consolidated Standards of Reporting Trials) 2025 guidelines to ensure methodological rigor, internal validity, and transparency.