The relationship between perceived safety and postoperative recovery in patients undergoing surgery with regional anesthesia: a cross-sectional study

Patients’ emotional and psychological experiences during surgery can significantly affect postoperative recovery. In procedures performed under regional anesthesia, where patients remain conscious, the perception of safety may play a critical role in both intraoperative comfort and recovery outcomes. This descriptive and correlational study was conducted between February 1 and June 30, 2025, in a public hospital in Istanbul. A total of 308 patients undergoing elective surgery under regional anesthesia were included. Data were collected using the Patient Information Form, Feeling Safe During Surgery Scale, and Postoperative Recovery Index. Descriptive statistics, the Mann–Whitney U test, the Kruskal–Wallis H test, and Spearman’s correlation analysis were used for data analysis. Patients reported a high level of perceived safety during surgery (M = 115.72 ± 10.50), while postoperative recovery was characterized by moderate levels of difficulty (M = 1.69 ± 0.36). Difficulties were most pronounced in the physical activity domain of recovery. A low but statistically significant negative correlation was identified between perceived safety during surgery and postoperative recovery scores (r = -0.157, p < 0.001). Higher perceived safety during surgery may be associated with fewer difficulties in postoperative recovery among patients undergoing regional anesthesia. Providing structured preoperative information, maintaining clear communication, and offering supportive nursing care may help strengthen patients’ perceived safety and support postoperative recovery within the perioperative process.