Distribution of Anxiety Levels in Patients with Elective Surgical Preoperatives at Adam Malik Hospital Medan

Oct 13, 2025 by windailys.com 68 views

Distribution of Anxiety Levels in Patients with Elective Surgical Preoperatives at Adam Malik Hospital Medan

Introduction

Preoperation anxiety is a significant concern for patients undergoing surgery, as it can lead to emotional, psychological, and physical problems. This anxiety can impact the entire anesthesia process, from preoperative visits to recovery. Understanding the distribution of anxiety levels among patients undergoing elective surgery is crucial for healthcare providers to develop effective strategies to alleviate anxiety and ensure a smooth surgical experience. This study aims to analyze the distribution of anxiety levels among patients undergoing elective surgery at the Adam Malik Hajj Hospital in Medan during the period August to November 2019.

Research Methods

In this study, an analytic method with a cross-sectional design was used. Primary data were obtained through direct interviews with preoperative patients. The level of anxiety was measured using a questionnaire, specifically the Amsterdam Preoperative Anxiety and Information Scale (AP AIS). A sample of 100 respondents was taken to obtain a comprehensive picture of preoperative anxiety.

Research Results

Based on the results of the study, it was found that the majority of respondents were women (57%), in the young adult age group (47%), and from the Batak tribe (54%). Education was the dominant factor among respondents (67%), with a history of previous operations not being a significant factor (57%). Most patients underwent general anesthesia (75%) and large operations (74%).

The distribution of anxiety levels was divided as follows: 30% of respondents did not experience anxiety, 39% experienced mild anxiety, 23% experienced moderate anxiety, 7% suffered severe anxiety, and 1% experienced very severe anxiety. The results of the analysis showed that there was a significant relationship between age and anxiety levels, while sex, education level, anesthesia type, and the type of operation did not show a significant relationship to the level of anxiety experienced by patients.

Additional Analysis

The results of this study indicate that the level of anxiety experienced by preoperative patients is quite varied. Increasing the level of anxiety can be influenced by several factors, including age. Younger patients may be more anxious to face medical procedures due to lack of experience, while older ones may have a more calm view but may doubt their health in the future.

Interestingly, although many patients have mild anxiety, the majority do not show an extreme level of anxiety. This could be caused by sufficient information and emotional support they received, both from medical personnel and from the family. Therefore, it is essential for hospitals to continue to improve communication and provide clear and adequate information to patients before undergoing surgery.

Conclusion

Preoperation anxiety remains an issue that must be considered by health workers in patient management. By understanding the factors that influence this anxiety, hospitals such as Adam Malik Hospital Medan can better serve and help their patients face surgery more calmly. Further research with broader subjects is also advised to get a deeper understanding of the anxiety of preoperation in various demographics.

Implications for Healthcare Providers

The findings of this study have significant implications for healthcare providers. Firstly, healthcare providers should be aware of the potential impact of age on anxiety levels in preoperative patients. Younger patients may require additional support and reassurance to alleviate their anxiety. Secondly, healthcare providers should ensure that patients receive sufficient information and emotional support before undergoing surgery. This can be achieved through clear and concise communication, as well as providing emotional support from medical personnel and family members.

Recommendations for Future Research

This study highlights the need for further research on preoperation anxiety in various demographics. Future studies should aim to investigate the factors that influence anxiety levels in preoperative patients, including age, sex, education level, anesthesia type, and the type of operation. Additionally, future studies should explore the effectiveness of different interventions to alleviate anxiety in preoperative patients.

Limitations of the Study

This study has several limitations. Firstly, the sample size was relatively small, which may limit the generalizability of the findings. Secondly, the study only investigated preoperative anxiety in patients undergoing elective surgery at the Adam Malik Hajj Hospital in Medan. Future studies should aim to investigate preoperation anxiety in various settings and demographics.

Conclusion

In conclusion, this study highlights the importance of understanding the distribution of anxiety levels among patients undergoing elective surgery. The findings of this study have significant implications for healthcare providers, and future research should aim to investigate the factors that influence anxiety levels in preoperative patients. By understanding the factors that influence anxiety, healthcare providers can develop effective strategies to alleviate anxiety and ensure a smooth surgical experience for patients.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Preoperation Anxiety

Q: What is preoperation anxiety?

A: Preoperation anxiety is a feeling of worry or fear that patients experience before undergoing surgery. It can be caused by various factors, including the uncertainty of the outcome, the fear of pain, and the anxiety of being away from family and friends.

Q: How common is preoperation anxiety?

A: Preoperation anxiety is a common experience among patients undergoing surgery. Studies have shown that up to 70% of patients experience some level of anxiety before surgery.

Q: What are the symptoms of preoperation anxiety?

A: The symptoms of preoperation anxiety can vary from person to person, but common symptoms include:

Feeling nervous or on edge
Difficulty sleeping or concentrating
Feeling anxious or fearful about the surgery
Avoiding thoughts or conversations about the surgery
Feeling overwhelmed or helpless

Q: What are the causes of preoperation anxiety?

A: The causes of preoperation anxiety can be complex and multifaceted. Some common causes include:

Fear of the unknown
Fear of pain or discomfort
Fear of being away from family and friends
Uncertainty about the outcome of the surgery
Previous negative experiences with surgery or medical procedures

Q: How can preoperation anxiety be managed?

A: Preoperation anxiety can be managed through various strategies, including:

Education and information about the surgery and recovery process
Emotional support from family and friends
Relaxation techniques, such as deep breathing or meditation
Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) to address negative thoughts and behaviors
Medications, such as benzodiazepines or anxiolytics, to reduce anxiety

Q: What role do healthcare providers play in managing preoperation anxiety?

A: Healthcare providers play a crucial role in managing preoperation anxiety. They can:

Provide education and information about the surgery and recovery process
Offer emotional support and reassurance
Develop a plan to manage anxiety, including relaxation techniques and medications
Collaborate with other healthcare professionals, such as anesthesiologists and psychologists, to provide comprehensive care

Q: What can patients do to prepare for surgery and reduce preoperation anxiety?

A: Patients can take several steps to prepare for surgery and reduce preoperation anxiety, including:

Asking questions and seeking information about the surgery and recovery process
Developing a plan to manage anxiety, including relaxation techniques and medications
Building a support network of family and friends
Practicing relaxation techniques, such as deep breathing or meditation
Considering cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) to address negative thoughts and behaviors

Q: What are the consequences of untreated preoperation anxiety?

A: Untreated preoperation anxiety can have serious consequences, including:

Increased risk of complications during surgery
Delayed recovery and increased length of stay in the hospital
Increased risk of postoperative depression and anxiety
Decreased quality of life and overall well-being

Q: How can patients and healthcare providers work together to manage preoperation anxiety?

A: Patients and healthcare providers can work together to manage preoperation anxiety by:

Developing a plan to manage anxiety, including relaxation techniques and medications
Collaborating with other healthcare professionals, such as anesthesiologists and psychologists, to provide comprehensive care
Providing education and information about the surgery and recovery process
Offering emotional support and reassurance
Encouraging open communication and addressing concerns and fears.