Which strategy is effective in managing patient anxiety before anesthesia?

Providing written information and reassurance is an effective strategy for managing patient anxiety before anesthesia because it addresses the patient's need for understanding and clarity about what to expect. Patients often feel anxious when they are unsure about the procedure, the anesthesia, and their overall care. By offering clear, written information, healthcare professionals can help demystify the anesthesia process, outline what will happen to the patient, how they will be cared for, and what sensations they may experience. This proactive communication fosters trust and reassurance, ultimately leading to a reduction in anxiety levels.

Additionally, the combination of verbal reassurance from healthcare providers, alongside written materials, can reinforce the information provided, allowing patients to feel more in control and informed. This strategy is considered best practice in pre-anesthesia assessment and contributes to a smoother patient experience.

Other strategies, like administering general anesthesia quickly, may inadvertently increase anxiety due to the abruptness of the process without addressing patient concerns. Avoiding discussions about the procedure can leave patients feeling uninformed and more anxious. Only offering sedation upon request may not address the anxiety proactively, as some patients might not vocalize their concerns or be aware they need assistance until anxiety levels become too high. Hence, providing written information and reassurance remains the most effective method for managing patient anxiety