Evaluation of Anxiety Levels of Patients Before Colon Surgery

Abstract

Aim: Preoperative anxiety is a phenomenon which gradually intensifies starting from the date of operational planning and which lasts until the operation. This study is intended to assess our patients’ anxiety levels before colon surgery. Method: The prospective study included 36 patients who were operated for colon cancer in our clinic between November 2014 and January 2015 study group (SG). All patients were assessed using the Spielberger’s State-Trait Anxiety Inventory (STAI) and asked about the reasons they were concerned about surgery. The control group (CG) consisted of 30 medical staff at the hospital who volunteered to take part in the research, were mentally and physically healthy, and did not smoke or use drugs, alcohol or psychoactive substances. Method: The prospective study included 36 patients who were operated for colon cancer in our clinic between November 2014 and January 2015 study group (SG). All patients were assessed using the Spielberger’s State-Trait Anxiety Inventory (STAI) and asked about the reasons they were concerned about surgery. The control group (CG) consisted of 30 medical staff at the hospital who volunteered to take part in the research, were mentally and physically healthy, and did not smoke or use drugs, alcohol or psychoactive substances. Results: Twelve of the 36 patients who took part in the study were female, the remaining 24 patients were male, and the average age was 57.4±0.3 years. Mean STAI TX-1 score was 53.30±18.60 for the SG and 32.76±5.18 for the CG, and there was a statistical difference between the two groups (p<0.05). Mean STAI TX-2 score was 50.24±7.83 for the SG and 39.28±2.43 for the CG (p<0.05). Higher levels of anxiety were observed particularly in patients of advanced age who had comorbid diseases and high income and education level. The most common causes of anxiety were fear of requiring stoma surgery, possibility of postoperative chemotherapy, and not being able to wake up after the operation. Conclusion: It is important to know patients’ anxiety levels before any surgery so that they can be informed about these issues. In routine practice, patients with preoperative anxiety in clinics can be provided with the necessary support. In addition to this study, we are also conducting ongoing research on the effects of severity of anxiety on the postoperative period.

Keywords

• Anxiety
• colon surgery
• State-Trait Anxiety Inventory