A PSYCHOLOGICAL EVALUATION OF PREOPERATIVE ANXIETY, STRESSORS, AND ANXIETY-REDUCTION STRATEGIES IN ELECTIVE SURGICAL PATIENTS

Abstract

Preoperative anxiety is a major issue in elective surgery patients and tends to contribute to negative physiological as well as psychological consequences. The objective of this study was to assess the prevalence, important precipitants, and effective coping strategies for preoperative anxiety in patients admitted for elective surgeries in two large tertiary care teaching hospitals of Peshawar. A cross-sectional descriptive survey was conducted and a pre-validated, standardized questionnaire was given to 150 adult patients. The survey revealed that 60% o,f the respondents were females with the maximum percentage fall under the age group of 31–45 years. Fear of postoperative pain, information deficit, economic worries, and fear of anesthetic were the primary anxiety provokers. Most common self-reported coping mechanisms by patients were the use of medication, breathing, support from family members, and hospital staff contact. The results showed significant correlation between demographic variables—age, gender, and history of previous surgery and anxiety scores. Anxiety scores were lower in those patients who underwent nonpharmacologic interventions like guided imagery and relaxation. The study draws attention to early detection of anxiety precipitants and recommends implementing structured preoperative teaching and psychologic support within surgical care pathways. Such interventions are of utmost importance in enhancing patient outcome, satisfaction, and recovery.