RESUMEN
In their daily practice, the nurses note the patients' anxiety when they are in hospital for diagnosis exams. Considering this observation, we wanted to assess the potential benefits provided by the behavioural and relational techniques, such as sophrology, maintenance of the help relation, visualization-relaxation. In order to carry out this survey, we adopted the model of Betty NEUMAN, who relies on the concept of homeostasis and on the stress theory of Hans Seyle. The measurement of anxiety by the STAI (State Trait Anxiety Inventory), a scale worked out by SPIELBERGER, enabled us to prove that these relational tools, used by the nurses, made it possible for the patients to better mobilize their adjustment or coping strategies. Recommendations concerning the management of anxiety were set out as not to trigger an attitude of vigilant coping.
