Clinical nursing practice for the reduction of anxiety in patients in the cardiac preoperative period: An intervention research

Abstract

Objective: To identify the contribution of nursing interventions in order to reduce anxiety in patients in the preoperative period of cardiac surgery. Method: An Intervention Research study, conducted during two months of 2018 with 20 patients. Data collection was carried out in three moments. Results: It was revealed that the cardiac patient in the preoperativeperiod of cardiac surgery is predominantly male, hypertensive, awaiting valve replacement. Significant risk factors for anxiety were shown: the technical language of the professionals, previous experience of cardiac surgery, and its cancellation during hospitalization. Discussion: Previous studies have also presented results similar to those found in this study, confirming the fundamental role of nursing in coping with anxiety which is so common when waiting for surgery. Conclusion: In this context, nursing interventions may contribute to a significant reduction in patients’ anxiety, generating positive results for the patient and for the health institution.