The effectiveness of preoperative individual information on reducing anxiety and pain after hysterectomy: A randomized controlled trial

Abstract

Background and objective: Preoperative anxiety among gynecological patients is well-known and has a direct correlation with postoperative pain. By minimizing preoperative anxiety, the level of postoperative pain may decrease.  The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effect of preoperative structured information and dialogue on patients' anxiety and postoperative pain.

Methods: A single-center non-blinded randomized controlled trial. Forty-six women scheduled for hysterectomy were allocated either to the study group or the control group.  The study group was given individual information at a preoperative consultation while the control group was given information at admittance. The main outcome was anxiety level and postoperative pain.

Results: Forty participants (study group = 20; control group = 20) were analyzed. No statistically significant difference was found in anxiety level within the first 24 h postoperatively or in postoperative pain within four weeks between the groups.

Conclusions: Preoperative individual information and dialogue did not result in significant effects in reducing anxiety level nor did it result in lower postoperative pain score.