Effect of Perioperative Instructions on Postoperative Discomforts and Satisfaction Level among Patients Undergoing Thyroidectomy

Abstract

Context: Thyroidectomy is a type of surgery directed to remove all or part of the thyroid gland. Documented complications after thyroidectomy are rare, but their consequences can often be life-threatening. Patients who receive perioperative instructions about what to expect after the operation often have better coping with postoperative discomforts minimize post-surgical complications and reduce the duration of hospitalization. It also improves patient safety and reduces the anxiety induced by the intervention. In addition to this, it elevates the patient's satisfaction level. So, perioperative instructions are essential.

Aim: The present study aims to determine the effect of perioperative instructions on postoperative discomforts and satisfaction levels among patients undergoing thyroidectomy. The study hypothesized that postoperative patients who receive the perioperative instructions exhibit fewer discomforts and more satisfaction than those who do not.
Methods: The study utilizes a quasi-experimental (study/control group) design. It was conducted at the Head and Neck Surgical Department of Alexandria Main University Hospital. A convenience sample included 70 adult patients were selected from the setting mentioned above who have enrolled in either study or control groups of 35 patients for each. Three tools were used for data collection. A structured interview questionnaire aimed to assess the socio-demographic characteristics and clinical data of the study subjects. Discomfort assessment scale to rate the patient's level of discomfort against six common postoperative problems. Perioperative instructions patients’ satisfaction questionnaire developed to determine the patients′ satisfaction level regarding perioperative instructions.

Results: There were statistically significant differences among the study and control groups in the first, second, and third weeks regarding total discomfort score level, where t=3.606, p=<0.001; t=3.049, p=<0.001; t=21.213, p=<0.001respectively. The studied patients had a higher level of satisfaction compared to those in the control group with statistically significant differences regarding overall scores of satisfaction, and with preoperative instruction, postoperative instruction, and psychological preparation, where t=48.382, p=<0.001; t=6.023, p=<0.001; t=27.997, p=<0.001; t=32.939, p=<0.001respectively.

Conclusion: The study hypotheses were accepted as postoperative patients who receive perioperative instructions exhibit less discomfort and a more satisfying level than those who do not. The perioperative instructions should be applied to the care of patients undergoing thyroidectomy to decrease patients' discomfort and increase their satisfaction level.