The Influence of Patient Awareness on the Incidence and Severity of Pain During Propofol Injection: A Randomized Controlled Study.

Abstract Background: Propofol, a widely utilized intravenous anaesthetic agent for induction and maintenance of anaesthesia, is renowned for its rapid onset and brief duration. However, discomfort associated with its injection is reported in approximately 20% to 90% of cases, negatively impacting patient satisfaction and procedural safety. Objectives: The primary aim of this study was to assess the influence of patient awareness regarding the potential for pain during propofol injection on both the occurrence rate and severity of the pain experienced. The assessment of pain scores associated with propofol injection served as the principal endpoint of the investigation. Methods: This randomised, controlled trial was conducted at Beni-Suef University Hospital with approval from the anaesthesiology department, the surgical ICU, pain management, and the hospital's ethical committee. A total of 210 patients participated in the study, randomly allocated into two groups: Group A (Aware), informed about the potential for pain associated with propofol injection, and Group B (Unaware), not informed of this possibility. Results: Statistical analysis revealed significant differences between the groups in terms of verbal categorical scoring (VCS) and the numerical rating scale (NRS) across various pain intensity levels (0, 1-3, 4-6, 7-9, and 10). However, no significant differences were observed regarding age, weight, and the American Society of Anaesthesiology (ASA) classification. Conclusion: The findings underscore the significant impact of patient awareness on the experience of pain during propofol injection. Educating patients about the possibility of pain may influence their perception and reporting of pain intensity, suggesting a need for tailored patient communication strategies in clinical practice.