ASSESSMENT OF THE MAGNITUDE OF ANXIETY IN ADULTS UNDERGOING 1ST OXYGEN TREATMENT IN A HYPERBARIC CHAMBER

The purpose of this study was to determine the magnitude and specific foci of anxiety experienced by patients receiving their initial hyperb aric treatment. The Spielberger State-Trait Inventory questionnaire an d a personal interview were administered to 24 patients to determine a nxiety levels. Upon arrival at the hyperbaric clinic and prior to any type of health teaching, the State and Trait questionnaire was adminis tered to the patients. One hour prior to the treatment, the State ques tionnaire was repeated to determine any significant changes in anxiety levels. No significance was found in anxiety levels between pre-healt h and pre-treatment. The Trait questionnaire revealed that this specif ic group of patients, regardless of the circumstances, felt they were not very anxious individuals. Post-treatment, the State questionnaire was administered again and these anxiety levels did differe significan tly from the pre-health and pre-treatment levels. The findings indicat e the need to continue to validate clients' perceived needs during hyp erbaric treatment, which will help direct future nursing practice.