Authors (including presenting author) :
Fung KY(1), Po YM(1), Wong HT(2), Chan SH(1), Li KC(1), Ip LH(1), Sin MW(1), Choi WK(1), Lo WC(1), Dr. Szeto L(1)
Affiliation :
(1)Department of Anaesthesia and Operating Theatre Services (2) Department of Ophthalmology
Introduction :
Preoperative anxiety (PA) represents a significant challenge in day surgery settings, affecting patients' psychological and physiological well-being preoperatively. This anxiety often stems from uncertainties about the surgical journey and can manifest through various symptoms including insomnia, pain, nausea, vomiting, and neurocognitive dysfunction. While pharmacological interventions have traditionally been used to manage PA, their associated side effects such as respiratory depression, drowsiness, and prolonged recovery times have led to increased interest in non-pharmacological alternatives.
This study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of a preoperative orientation video in reducing anxiety levels among day surgery patients at Tseung Kwan O Hospital Day Surgery Centre (TKOH DSC).
Objectives :
This study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of a preoperative orientation video in
reducing anxiety levels among day surgery patients at Tseung Kwan O Hospital Day Surgery Centre (TKOH DSC).
Methodology :
Patients scheduled for elective day surgery at TKOH DSC were recruited. Anxiety levels were assessed using both the Amsterdam Preoperative Anxiety and Information Scale (APAIS) and the State-Trait Anxiety Inventory (STAI). Patients were shown an orientation video designed to familiarize them with the perioperative environment and procedures. Meanwhile, satisfaction level was accessed after intervention.
Result & Outcome :
Seventy patients were recruited. Results demonstrated that approximately 40% of patients initially presented with medium to high levels of preoperative anxiety according to STAI measurements. Following the video intervention, significant reductions in anxiety levels were observed. The APAIS Anesthesia anxiety mean scores showed a statistically significant decrease from 3.91 to 3.57 (p=0.010). The study revealed that the prevalence of anxiety among TKOH DSC patients was moderate, and the implementation of the on-day admission orientation video proved effective in reducing anxiety levels.
The video not only enhanced patient’s adaptability of the perioperative setting, but also improved their satisfaction peri-operatively as over 80% of patients rated 8 out of 10 about the adaptability and satisfaction levels. These findings suggest that preoperative orientation videos can be a viable, non-pharmacological approach to manage preoperative anxiety in day surgery patients. This intervention not only helps reduce patient anxiety but also potentially improves overall perioperative satisfaction and patient care quality.
