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The Amsterdam Preoperative Anxiety and Information Scale (APAIS)
N Moerman1, F S van Dam, M J Muller
1Department of Anesthesiology, Academic Medical Centre, University of Amsterdam, The Netherlands.
Anesthesia and Analgesia
|March 1, 1996
Summary
Most patients desire preoperative information, but 32% experience significant anxiety. The Amsterdam Preoperative Anxiety and Information Scale (APAIS) effectively measures patient anxiety and information needs.
Area of Science:
- Anesthesiology
- Psychology
- Medical Sociology
Background:
- Preoperative anxiety and information needs significantly impact patient experience and outcomes.
- Standardized assessment tools are crucial for identifying patients requiring targeted support.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate patient anxiety levels and information requirements in the preoperative phase.
- To validate the Amsterdam Preoperative Anxiety and Information Scale (APAIS) as a clinical tool.
Main Methods:
- A cohort of 320 patients completed the six-item Amsterdam Preoperative Anxiety and Information Scale (APAIS).
- A subset of 200 patients also completed Spielberger's State-Trait Anxiety Inventory (STAI-State) for concurrent validation.
- Factor analysis was employed to identify underlying constructs within the APAIS.
Main Results:
- Factor analysis confirmed two primary dimensions: anxiety and information need.
- The APAIS anxiety scale demonstrated a high correlation (0.74) with the STAI-State.
- 32% of patients were identified as "anxiety cases," while over 80% expressed a positive attitude towards receiving information.
- Women reported higher anxiety than men; high information needs correlated with high anxiety; and first-time surgical patients had greater information requirements.
Conclusions:
- The APAIS is a valid, reliable, and efficient instrument for assessing preoperative anxiety and information needs.
- Findings highlight the prevalence of preoperative anxiety and the strong patient desire for information.
- The study identifies demographic and experiential factors influencing anxiety and information requirements, informing tailored preoperative care strategies.