“Prevalence and associated factors of preoperative anxiety among obstetric patients who underwent cesarean section”: A cross-sectional study

BACKGROUND: Anxiety is the most common problem in the preoperative period. This anxiety increases postoperative pain, delay healing, and prolong the hospital stay. Among the surgical population, a higher level of preoperative anxiety has been seen in obstetric patients. OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study was to assess the prevalence and associated factors of preoperative anxiety among obstetric patients undergoing cesarean section. METHODS: An institutional-based cross-sectional study was conducted from January 01, 2021, to May 30, 2021. A total of 376 obstetric patients who underwent cesarean sections were included. Descriptive statistics, cross-tabs, and binary logistic regression analysis were performed to identify the association shivering and independent variables. The strength of the association was presented using an adjusted odds ratio with a 95% confidence interval and a p-value<0.05 was considered as statistically significant state versions of state-trait anxiety inventory scale (S-STAI) were used for this study. RESULTS: The overall prevalence rate of preoperative anxiety was 63% (95% CI: 58.2, 68.1). The patient's preoperative mean anxiety score of STAI was (43.81 ± 8.81). There was a high level of preoperative anxiety in patients undergoing emergency cesarean section as compared to elective patients. Patients' age less than 30 years, level of education, and previous anesthesia and surgery exposure were also highly associated with the dependent variable. CONCLUSION: In this study, fear of complications and fear of death result of operation were the most common factors responsible for preoperative anxiety while few patients were anxious about financial loss and osmotic issues.