Patients' Experiences of Day Surgery: A Qualitative Systematic Review

To examine how patients experience day surgery.

Systematic review using Thomas and Harden's framework for synthesis and analysed through Ricoeur's theory of interpretation.

Systematic searches in MEDLINE, CINAHL and EMBASE (September 2023) identified qualitative studies focusing on patients' lived experiences with day surgery (defined as < 24-h hospital stay). Studies were required to provide qualitative data on patient experiences and be published in English or Scandinavian languages. Forward and backward citation searches were also conducted in Scopus.

Thirty-four studies met the inclusion criteria. The analysis revealed four key themes: (1) 'Perceptions of the day surgery concept shape patient expectations'; (2) 'Navigating expectation and reality: Surprises and challenges in day surgery'; (3) 'Navigating through postoperative recovery: Feelings of responsibility and insecurity following day surgery'; and (4) 'The vital role of support from both family and professionals during recovery after day surgery'.

Patients' expectations of day surgery strongly influence their overall experience, while the complex self-care demands of postoperative recovery underscore the need for robust support systems involving families and healthcare professionals.

This review highlights the importance of thorough preoperative counselling and ongoing support for patients' complex postoperative self-care. These findings suggest that improved patient-centred care and targeted support could enhance recovery outcomes in day surgery pathways.

Problem addressed: The study explores the often-overlooked challenges that patients face with postoperative self-care following day surgery.

Expectations of day surgery as 'minor' often conflict with patients' emotional and physical self-care needs, revealing a need for comprehensive support. Research impact: Insights from this review can inform patient-centred care practices in day surgery settings globally, underscoring the critical role of family and professional support.

No patient or public contribution.

Registered with PROSPERO: CRD42023414310.