This randomized controlled trial evaluated whether a 30-minute foot bath with warm water (40-41°C) after colonoscopy reduces post-procedure pain and abdominal distension and shortens the time to first passage of flatus. Ninety adults undergoing planned colonoscopy were randomized to a foot bath group or standard care. Pain and distension were assessed using a visual analog scale at 0, 15, and 30 minutes after the procedure. Time to first flatus and overall satisfaction were also recorded.
Participants (n=90) were randomized 1:1 to receive a warm foot bath (40-41°C for 30 minutes) immediately after colonoscopy or to receive standard care only. Outcomes included post-colonoscopy pain and abdominal distension measured with a 0-10 VAS at 0, 15, and 30 minutes; time to first flatus recorded in minutes based on participant report; and overall satisfaction measured using VAS at the end of the observation period. The study was conducted in a university hospital endoscopy unit between April 2024 and December 2025.
Study Type
INTERVENTIONAL
Allocation
RANDOMIZED
Purpose
OTHER
Masking
NONE
Enrollment
90
Warm water foot bath (40-41°C) for 30 minutes applied after colonoscopy.
Kocaeli University
Kocaeli, Turkey (Türkiye)
Post-colonoscopy pain intensity (VAS)
Pain intensity measured using a 0-10 visual analog scale (VAS); higher scores indicate greater pain.
Time frame: 0, 15, and 30 minutes after colonoscopy
Post-colonoscopy abdominal distension (VAS)
Distension severity measured using a 0-10 VAS; higher scores indicate greater distension.
Time frame: 0, 15, and 30 minutes after colonoscopy.
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