Fear of the Unknown: Emotional Factors Prior to Cataract Surgery

By: Roberta Marback, Edma Temporini, Newton Kara Jnior , CLINICS. 2007;
62(4):433-8.
Summary:
The article consisted of a cross-sectional study conducted at a university hospital, which
utilized the questionnaire as the research tool, and sought to find out the emotional factors related
to daily difficulties which complicates the surgery among patients affected with cataract. They
mentioned that patients shows anxiety throughout the whole process of the surgical experience.
According to them satisfaction among patients is achieved through a well conducted health
education program which addresses their fears and anxiety before, during and after the surgery.
The following were fears were identified: fear of the surgical procedure, feared visual loss, and
feared death during the surgery. They highlighted that what is most distressing to patients was the
administration of anaesthesia rather than the surgical procedure itself. This feeling was linked to
the idea of losing control, absence, disconnection, and death. They identified that communication
among doctors and other health professionals to the patient during the whole surgical experience
is very important. Emphasis was placed on the performance of orientation in order to reduce the
level of anxiety among patients. Health education programs and the utilization of visual aids and
other IEC materials were essential in lessening the anxiety of the patient.
Critique:
The idea of the authors presented above pointed out to one thing, the conduction of a
health education program. Fear and anxiety originates from the lack of knowledge. Surgery itself
is a very stressful event in a patients life, added to it is the risk that the induction of anaesthesia
renders. It is therefore essential that the entire health care team provides the much needed health
education sought after by patients. This is the primary remedy in the reduction of anxiety in order

to promote better patient outcomes. Communication is really essential in order to provide quality
patient care especially for patients undergoing surgery. Constant support and explanation to the
patient provides the much needed support they need through such terrible ordeal. This is the
primary reason why the investigators conceptualized the utilization of the leaflet, since this will
assist the health care team in the provision of health education programs.