What matters to patients on the day of surgery - A qualitative study

Background: Surgical patients often face heightened anxiety, uncertainty, and vulnerability on the day of surgery. While patient-centered care emphasizes understanding individual needs and preferences, there is limited research addressing what patients consider most important on the day of surgery. This study aims to explore the experiences, values and priorities of surgical patients. Methods: This multi-center qualitative study utilized a flash-mob approach to collect data across 23 hospitals in Denmark. On the International Patient Safety Day 2024, 966 patients undergoing acute or planned surgery completed an electronic survey. The primary question, "What matters to you on the day of surgery?", allowed patients to provide free-text responses. Data were analyzed using reflexive thematic analysis to identify recurring themes reflecting patients' needs and experiences. Results: Three central themes were identifie:d1 "I'm a person with unique needs": Patients emphasized the importance of being treated as individuals, with their specific needs, past experiences, and vulnerabilities acknowledged.2 "Help me get through this": Patients expressed fears about anesthesia, loss of control, and surgical outcomes, valuing emotional support, clear communication, and professional competence to alleviate these anxieties.3 "Getting back to daily life": Patients prioritized quick recovery, minimal pain, and a seamless transition back to normalcy. These findings highlight the multifaceted nature of patient needs in perioperative care. Conclusion: The study demonstrates that empathetic, individualized care, coupled with clear communication and professionalism, is crucial to addressing patient-centered priorities during the surgical experience.