Preoperative evaluation of the knowledge and concerns of gynecology patients regarding anesthesia: A questionnaire based observational study

Abstract

Background: Although anesthesia is a fundamental aspect of surgical care, patients' preoperative understanding and perceptions of anesthesia, particularly in gynecology, are still inadequate. Patient apprehensions and insufficient awareness may affect preoperative anxiety, adherence, and satisfaction with perioperative care. Comprehending patient viewpoints can enhance counseling methodologies and alleviate anxiety via focused solutions. Objective(s): To evaluate the preoperative knowledge, apprehensions, and perceptions concerning anesthesia among gynecology patients slated for elective surgery, employing a structured questionnaire-based observational study design. Method(s): A prospective, cross-sectional study was performed for a duration of 6 months at the Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology at Jawahar Lal Nehru Medical College & Hospital, Bhagalpur. Fifty female patients, aged 18 to 60 years, scheduled for elective gynecologic surgeries under anesthesia, were recruited. A validated structured questionnaire was administered preoperatively to evaluate: Fundamental understanding of anesthesia and the responsibilities of anesthetists. Prevalent apprehensions regarding anesthesia (e.g., intraoperative awareness, postoperative discomfort, problems). Information sources. Preferred method of information reception A descriptive analysis was conducted, with data presented as percentages and mean scores. Result(s): The average age of participants was 36.8 +/- 9.2 years. Merely 28% of patients recognized that a specialized anesthesiologist would participate in their treatment. 52% voiced apprehension regarding failure to awaken post-anesthesia, whereas 46% harbored fears of regaining consciousness during the procedure. Postoperative pain and nausea were significant concerns for 58% and 40% of patients, respectively. The predominant source of knowledge was family and friends (40%), followed by prior personal experience (22%); merely 12% had undergone professional pre-anesthetic counseling. Seventy-six percent of patients indicated a preference for obtaining anesthesia-related information directly from the anesthesiologist prior to surgery. Conclusion(s): The research indicates that gynecological patients possess minimal prior information of anesthesia, and there is a widespread apprehension over intraoperative consciousness and postoperative problems. These findings highlight the necessity of systematic pre-anesthetic counseling as an integral component of surgical preparation, ideally administered by anesthesiologists. Focused educational interventions may augment patient comprehension, alleviate anxiety, and improve the overall perioperative experience.Copyright © 2025 Dr. Yashwant Research Labs Pvt. Ltd.. All rights reserved.