PATIENTS' KNOWLEDGE OF ANESTHESIA AND THE ROLE OF ANESTHESIOLOGISTS AT KABUL UNIVERSITY OF MEDICAL SCIENCES HOSPITALS

Abstract

Background: Anesthesiology, despite its critical role in surgical care, remains largely under recognized by the public. This study aims to assess the awareness and understanding of anesthesiology and anesthesiologists among patients at Kabul University of medical sciences hospitals.

Materials and methods: A cross-sectional survey was conducted from January to September 2023 involving 406 patients aged 18 and above, scheduled for elective surgery. A self-administered multiple-choice questionnaire was utilized to evaluate participants’ knowledge of anesthesiology and their perceptions of anesthesiologists. The questionnaire was translated into Dari and underwent rigorous validation.

Results: The study revealed that 70.7% of participants had never heard of anesthesiology as a specialty. A significant correlation was found between participants' education levels and their knowledge of anesthesiology (p < 0.001). While 54.2% had prior surgery experience, only 25.1% identified anesthesiologists as the providers of anesthesia. Concerns about anesthesia were prevalent, with 23.4% expressing fears primarily related to pain. Trust in anesthesiologists was high, with 67.5% affirming their trust, yet a substantial knowledge gap regarding the anesthesiologist's role was

Conclusion: This study highlights a critical need for enhanced public education about anesthesiology and the roles of anesthesiologists. Improving patient awareness can foster better communication, address fears, and ultimately enhance patient trust and satisfaction in surgical care. Active engagement of anesthesiologists with patients before and after procedures is essential to bridge this knowledge gap.