The effect of preoperative fear and related factors on patients’ postcataract surgery comfort level: A regression study

Abstract

Purpose This study was conducted to evaluate the impact of precataract surgery fear levels on postoperative patient comfort.

Design A descriptive study was conducted with 236 patients undergoing cataract surgery.

Methods Study data were collected using the Introductory Information Form, Surgical Fear Scale, and Short General Comfort Questionnaire. The extent of the relationship between predictors affecting patient comfort in cataract surgery was evaluated using linear regression analysis.

Findings A statistically significant negative correlation was found between preoperative fear and postoperative patient comfort. Surgical Fear Scale sub-dimensions, patients' inadequate information perception, gender, and previous cataract surgery experience were identified as predictors of comfort level.

Conclusions Patients' surgical fear and being inadequately informed decreased postoperative patient comfort. Patient characteristics of male gender and prior cataract surgery were associated with increased postoperative comfort levels. This study revealed the importance of fear management and individualized care in cataract surgery.