Surgical patients' preferences for pre-operative information

Area of Science:

• Surgical Patient Care
• Health Communication
• Gynecological Surgery

Background:

• Patient anxiety and information needs are critical in surgical settings.
• Effective communication strategies can improve patient experience and outcomes.
• The value of pre-operative preparation in gynecological surgery requires further investigation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess patient acceptance of preparatory communication before minor gynecological surgery.
• To identify patient preferences regarding the type, timing, and format of pre-operative information.
• To evaluate the effectiveness of different communication methods in preparing patients for surgery.

Main Methods:

• Two studies involving patients undergoing minor gynecological procedures.
• Assessment of patient preferences for preparatory communication through surveys and interviews.
• Exposure of patients to sample preparatory materials (procedural, sensory, coping, reassurance, general admission information).

Main Results:

• Only 10% of patients did not welcome special preparation.
• All patients welcomed some form of written preparation after exposure to sample materials.
• A composite booklet including procedural, sensory, coping, and general admission information was most preferred.
• Patients predominantly prefer receiving information from their surgeon.

Conclusions:

• Pre-operative communication is highly welcomed by patients undergoing gynecological surgery.
• A comprehensive, written preparatory booklet, supplemented by surgeon communication, is a practical and effective approach.
• This strategy offers a cost-effective method for preparing patients for routine adult surgery.