Related Experiment Videos
Paediatric preoperative teaching: effects at induction and postoperatively
J O Margolis1, B Ginsberg, G L Dear
1Department of Anesthesiology, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC 27710, USA.
Insights
An interactive teaching book reduced postoperative aggression in young children undergoing surgery. While anxiety increased on surgery day, behavioral changes decreased two weeks later, benefiting children and parents.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Surgery
- Child Psychology
- Health Education
Background:
- Preoperative anxiety and behavioral changes are common in children undergoing surgery.
- Traditional preoperative teaching methods may have limitations in effectively managing these issues.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the impact of an interactive teaching book versus routine preoperative teaching on children's postoperative behavior and mood.
- To assess parental satisfaction with the preoperative teaching interventions.
Main Methods:
- A randomized controlled trial involved 143 children aged 2-6 undergoing ambulatory surgery.
- Children were assigned to either routine teaching or an interactive book intervention group.
- Behavioral changes were assessed using the Vernon questionnaire; mood was measured using a Global Mood Score.
Main Results:
- The interactive book group showed significantly less postoperative aggression (P < 0.05).
- Children receiving the book reported higher preoperative anxiety but fewer behavioral issues two weeks post-surgery.
- 87% of parents felt the intervention helped their child, and 83% felt it helped themselves.
Conclusions:
- Interactive preoperative teaching books can be effective in mitigating negative behavioral changes after pediatric surgery.
- This intervention may improve the overall surgical experience for both children and their parents.
- Further research can explore long-term effects and applicability across different surgical settings.
Abstract:
In a randomized controlled trial at Duke University and University of North Carolina Hospitals, 143 two to six year old children undergoing elective ambulatory surgery were randomized into a control group who received routine preoperative teaching or an intervention group who received an interactive teaching book. Changes in behaviour were measured by a Vernon behavioural questionnaire preoperatively and again two weeks postoperatively. A Global Mood Score was assessed in the preoperative holding area, at arrival into the operating room, and at the time of mask induction. The children in the control group were significantly more aggressive postoperatively than the intervention group (P < 0.05). Children who received the interactive teaching book exhibited higher levels of anxiety on the day of surgery, but fewer behavioural changes two weeks following surgery. Parents in the intervention group reported that preoperative teaching helped their child (87%) and themselves (83%).