Preoperative Knowledge of Anesthesia Among Patients Undergoing Elective Surgeries at Lady Reading Hospital, Peshawar

Abstract

Background: Anesthesia plays a crucial role in surgical safety, yet patient awareness regarding anesthesia and the role of anesthetists remains limited. Preoperative knowledge about anesthesia plays a critical role in improving patient preparedness, reducing anxiety, and ensuring informed consent before elective surgeries. Assessing the level of knowledge can help identify gaps and guide the development of effective educational interventions. Objective: To determine the frequency of preoperative knowledge of anesthesia among patients undergoing elective surgeries at Lady Reading Hospital, Peshawar. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted on a sample of 311 patients aged between 18 and 50 who underwent elective surgeries. Data were collected using a structured questionnaire designed to evaluate patients' understanding of anesthesia, including its types, risks, benefits, and the role of anesthesiologists in preoperative care. Statistical analyses were performed to assess relationships between demographic variables and levels of anesthesia knowledge. Results: A total of 311 patients participated, with a gender distribution of 55.3% males and 44.7% females, spanning an age range of 18–50 years. Educational status revealed significant diversity, with 33% uneducated, while only 10% had attained higher education. Healthcare professionals were the primary source of anesthesia knowledge (47%), followed by family/friends (25%), media (7%), and brochures (3%), while 18% reported no prior information. Awareness of anesthesia types was limited, with only 37.3% demonstrating knowledge, whereas 62.7% lacked understanding. Timing of information delivery varied, with 39.9% informed more than a week before surgery, 25.7% within a week, 17.0% on the day of surgery, and 17.4% not informed at all. Confidence levels were moderate to high in 70% of patients, though 18% expressed low confidence. Understanding of anesthesia was strong in 24.1% and moderate in 33.8%, while 42.1% showed poor comprehension. Fear and concerns were noted in 38.9%, mainly regarding complications and awareness under anesthesia. Importantly, 79.1% regarded preoperative anesthesia knowledge as very important. Knowledge gaps were particularly evident in less educated and rural populations, while participants counseled directly by anesthetists exhibited better awareness. Suggestions to improve dissemination included routine preoperative anesthetist visits (46.3%), social media (16.4%), and television awareness campaigns (11.3%). Conclusion: This study underscores the need for targeted educational initiatives to bridge the knowledge gap regarding anesthesia among patients undergoing elective surgeries. Structured preoperative counseling sessions, easily accessible educational materials, and improved communication to enhance patient understanding. These gaps can improve patient outcomes, reduce anxiety, and foster trust in healthcare providers.