The Changing Face of Surgery Using Systematic Reviews

Abstract

Three systematic reviews relating to pre-admission procedures, admission procedures and staffing policies were undertaken to establish evidence to develop best practice guidelines for day surgery units. Results revealed that a pre-admission intervention can improve patient and surgery outcomes, although the most effective type of intervention should be further investigated. It was also found that distraction can reduce patient preoperative anxiety, and there is no high quality evidence relating skill mix, staffing levels and desired health outcomes in day surgery units. Recommendations for areas of future research are presented.

Management of preoperative anxiety in children

“…These studies led to further studies linking preoperative anxiety and postoperative behavior 5 . Literature from around the world indicates that preoperative anxiety is a global concern 4,6–23 . Anesthesia care providers from the United Kingdom refer to the importance of reducing children's anxiety for humanitarian reasons 5 .…”