The Effect of Health Literacy on Preoperative Anxiety Levels in Patients Undergoing Elective Surgery

The Effect of Internet Information Pollution on Surgical Fear in Patients Undergoing Surgery

PURPOSE

This study aimed to determine the effect of internet information pollution on levels of surgical fear among patients undergoing surgery.

DESIGN

Observational study.

METHODS

This study was conducted with 407 patients scheduled for surgery in the surgical wards of a university hospital. Data were collected preoperatively using a patient information form, the Internet Information Pollution Scale, and the Surgical Fear Questionnaire.

FINDINGS

A very weak positive correlation was found between total internet information pollution score and total surgical fear score (r = 0.184; P < .001). In regression analysis of the impact of internet information pollution on total surgical fear score, the regression model was significant (F = 13.183; P < .001), with 2.9% of the total change in surgical fear score explained by the total internet information pollution score (R2 = 0.029).

CONCLUSIONS

The results of this study suggest that the information pollution surgical patients encounter on the internet may increase their surgical fear. We recommend directing patients to reliable information sources and attempting to control unreliable data sources to prevent online information pollution and reduce patients' surgical fear.

Predictors of Health Literacy Levels in Patients Attending Anesthesia Outpatient Clinics for Preoperative Evaluation

INTRODUCTION

Health literacy significantly impacts healthcare outcomes, particularly in preoperative settings where patients' understanding of medical procedures, adherence to instructions, and surgical outcomes are influenced. Despite accessibility to medical information, challenges persist in comprehending healthcare details, affecting active patient participation in care. This study aims to assess health literacy among patients attending anesthesia outpatient clinics for preoperative evaluation and analyze associated factors.

METHODS

A sample size of 240 patients was determined using power analysis. The inclusion criteria encompassed informed, consenting patients with adequate mental capacity and primary education, aged 18-65 years, according to the American Society of Anesthesiologists (ASA I-II). Data were collected through a descriptive characteristics form and the Health Literacy Scale (HLS).

RESULTS

The mean health literacy score was 29.37±6.22, indicating a moderate level. Marital status, education level, employment status, book reading preference, comorbidities, and reason for clinic visits significantly influenced health literacy (p<0.001). Regression analysis revealed marital status (β=-1.915, p=0.047), employment (β=1.187, p=0.039), and book reading preference (β=3.76, p<0.001) as independent predictors of health literacy.

DISCUSSION

Health literacy levels were associated with various socio-demographic and health-related factors. Notably, being single or divorced, employed, and enjoying reading predicted higher health literacy. This underscores the impact of social support, occupation, and reading habits on health literacy. However, longitudinal studies with objective measures are warranted to further explore these associations.

CONCLUSION

This study underscores the importance of addressing health literacy levels in anesthesia outpatient clinics, highlighting key predictors such as marital status, education, and employment. While contributing to our understanding of preoperative health literacy, further research using longitudinal designs and objective measures is essential. Bridging the health literacy gap is crucial for empowering patients, refining decision-making, and elevating the quality of overall surgical experiences.