PREOPERATIVE ANXIETY IN INDIAN SURGICAL PATIENTS� EXPERIENCE OF A SINGLE UNIT

DR Suman Saini; Dr Madhu Dayal

Volume : VI, Issue : IX, September - 2016

PREOPERATIVE ANXIETY IN INDIAN SURGICAL PATIENTS� EXPERIENCE OF A SINGLE UNIT

Dr Suman Saini, Dr Madhu Dayal

Abstract :

BACKGROUND: Preoperative anxiety has been widely prevalent but poorly evaluated in surgical patients. Causative factors have not been studied in Indian population. The objective of this study was to assess prevalence, level and factors responsible for anxiety in the study group using a modified questionnaire. Methods: This prospective study included 219 ASA I & II patients scheduled for elective surgery in Sports Injury Center. Patients who consented were asked to fill the questionnaire during preoperative visit. The questionnaire included demographic factors and questions related to their fear about anaesthesia. Statistical Analysis : Data was analysed using Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) version 21.0. Results were evaluated using Mann–whitney test and Chi–square test. Result: Overall 58.9% patients were found to be anxious due one or more factors. Mean age was 32.2 ±12.9. Females (75.86%) were significantly more anxious than males (56.32%). No significant correlation of anxiety was found with age, level of education and previous anaesthetic exposure. Factors on priority for patient’s anxiety were concern of paralysis and disability (40.31%), fear of needles and catheters (39.53%) and fear of postoperative pain (33.33%). Fear of unknown was a concern for 24.03% patients. Most patients presented with mild to moderate fear. CONCLUSION: Prevalence of anxiety is high among preoperative patients. Females exhibit significantly higher level of anxiety. A modified self designed questionnaire correlating to patient’s concern is a reliable assessment tool. Slight differences are observed for some particular questions among patients.