How a Personal Touch Can Help Reduce Surgery Anxiety

Surgery is often viewed as a highly clinical process, where patients feel like they’re being fed into a production line. But what if we could change that perception? What if a simple conversation or a personal connection could help ease the anxiety many patients feel before going under anaesthesia?

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The Power of a Personal Connection

One technique that many anaesthetists use is simply talking to their patients. By engaging in casual conversation—whether it’s about the patient’s family, job, or a recent holiday—anaesthetists remind patients that there’s a human behind the mask. This personal connection helps to reduce the feelings of anxiety and makes the whole experience feel less clinical.

Surgery is a unique event for every patient, and it’s important that the process reflects that. While hospitals may work through multiple cases a day, each patient’s experience is their own, and taking the time to address their individual anxieties can make a world of difference.

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Shifting Focus to Positive Memories

One particularly effective technique is asking patients to think about something positive, such as a holiday or a special moment. By focusing on these memories, patients are able to shift their focus away from the upcoming procedure and towards something comforting.

In fact, many patients report that they dream about the holiday they discussed before surgery. For example, if a patient talks about a trip to a beach in Spain, they often wake up saying they had a wonderful dream about that very beach. It’s a simple but powerful way to create a more relaxing experience.

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The Human Side of Anaesthesia

At Operation Sidekick, we know how important it is to address the emotional and psychological aspects of surgery. While anaesthetists play a critical role in managing the physical aspects of the procedure, they also have a unique opportunity to connect with patients on a personal level. This human side of anaesthesia is often what helps patients feel calmer, more reassured, and ready to face their surgery with confidence.

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Conclusion

Surgery doesn’t have to be a purely clinical experience. By fostering a personal connection and helping patients focus on positive memories, we can reduce pre-surgery anxiety and make the process feel less daunting. At Operation Sidekick, we’re committed to helping patients manage their anxiety and feel more comfortable before surgery.

If you’re preparing for surgery and feeling nervous, visit www.operationsidekick.co.uk to learn more about how we can support you.