Anxiety management: a distinct nursing role in day surgery

Improved anaesthetic techniques and the increase in minimal access surgery over the past 20 years has had a considerable impact upon the pattern of nursing care required by the surgical patient. In order to adapt to these changes some day surgery nurses have opted for an extension to their role while the majority have expanded their remit and perform nursing interventions within a multi-skilled role. Amid these changing patterns, the nursing profession has been active in conducting research into best practice concerning day surgery. Consequently, a great deal of information is available regarding areas for possible growth. One possible growth area which is also a vitally important issue for patients prior to day surgery is anxiety management. A future nursing role could involve formal anxiety management implicit within a multi-skilled role and as part of an expanded role. The role possibilities are discussed together with an information provision plan as both are central to the effective handling of pre-operative fears.