The perception of anxiety and stress in day surgery: a comparison among patients, family members and nurses
Palese, A.; Burlon, A.; Rizzato, M.; Dritti, P.; Matuella, D.; Conte, L.
Professioni Infermieristiche 57(2): 102-108
2004
ISSN/ISBN: 0033-0205 PMID: 15268849 Document Number: 579966
The purpose of this study was to assess anxiety and stress in day surgery patients, and to compare anxiety and stress as perceived by patients, family members and nurses. A descriptive design involving a convenience sample of 40 patients was used. Patients were waiting for ambulatory procedures of varicectomy, inguinal hernia and breast biopsy. Researchers conducted 120 interviews (40 on patients; 40 on family members and 40 on nurses) with a Questionnaire based on 25 stress factors. The mean intensity of patients' anxiety, measured with a Numerical Rating Scale, was 5,15 (median 5, SD 2,63). Family members and nurses overestimated patients anxiety. When nurses were caring for the same patient more times measured anxiety and stress more accurately. The following stressing factors emerged from this study: a) Fear due to the consequences of the surgery; b) losing one self autonomy in ADL; c) pain; d) anaesthesia. The majority of these factors could be reduce through adequate education and information strategies.