Nurse-Led Preoperative Education for Elective Surgery: Patient Satisfaction and Recall in a Mixed-Method Study

Background: Preoperative education is important in enhancing patients’ preparation and improving outcomes during recovery after surgery. However, there are limited studies in Saudi Arabia concerning levels of satisfaction and the recall of preoperative education among patients undergoing elective surgeries. Aim: The aim of this project was to examine patient satisfaction and recall of preoperative education for elective surgeries. Methodology: An explanatory sequential mixed-method study was carried out at one of the large governmental tertiary hospitals in the Western Region of Saudi Arabia. Data were collected from a total sample of 167 patients. Quantitative data were collected using a structured questionnaire, while interviews were carried out to collect qualitative data. Descriptive, inferential and thematic analyses were utilised for data analysis. Results: The quantitative results revealed high patient satisfaction with preoperative education (60%) and good levels of recall for preoperative education (45%). A moderate positive correlation between patient satisfaction and recall (r = 0.56; p < 0.01) was reported. A regression analysis revealed that age, level of education and surgery specialty predicted both satisfaction and recall. Four major themes (satisfaction with preoperative education, recall of preoperative education, effect of preoperative education on anxiety and preparedness and improvement suggestions) emerged from the qualitative analysis. Conclusions: This study established that patients under elective surgeries were satisfied with their preoperative education and could recall information provided in such educational programs. However, the findings also reinforced the need for follow-up communication after surgery to help improve recall and adherence to postoperative care instructions.