Preoperative preparation on the view of the surgical patient

Abstract

This study aimed to identify the procedures and guidance received by patients undergoing elective surgery on the preoperative evaluation in a surgical unit. The following research had a qualitative approach, being the subjects hospitalized patients in a surgical unit in a public hospital in the state ofRio Grandedo Sul. Data were collected through a semistructured interview and patient’s records. Data analysis was performed by theme analysis. The following categories have come up from data discussion: knowledge and experience of patients regarding pre-operative procedures and patients' knowledge of the professionals involved in the preoperative preparation. There is a necessity of the nursing staff to emphasize the postoperative period. In the perception of the patients, preoperative preparation contributes to coping regarding the surgery, since the orientations given reduce anxiety, fears and concerns arising from the procedures.