The impact of patient education on minimizing preoperative anxiety related to anesthesia and surgery

Preoperative anxiety is common among surgical patients due to fears of pain, disability, loss of control, and even death. Hospitalization further increases anxiety because of unfamiliar environments, communication issues, and separation from family. High levels of anxiety can negatively affect coping, delay healing, and increase morbidity and mortality. Many patients experience greater anxiety when they lack adequate information about their illness and treatment. Preoperative education, which includes health information, psychological support, and skill preparation, can reduce anxiety, improve recovery, and shorten hospital stay. This study aims to provide evidence on how patient education helps reduce preoperative stress related to anesthesia and surgery.