Introduction Spinal anaesthesia is the preferred method for Caesarean sections due to its high success rate and minimal impact on maternal-fetal physiology. However, it is not without discomfort, as patients remain awake and can experience visceral pain, nausea, and other sensations that contribute to perioperative anxiety and dissatisfaction. This study explores the potential of an informative video to address these issues and improve patient outcomes.
Problem Statement Despite the widespread use of educational videos, the optimal approach for reducing anxiety and improving satisfaction in Caesarean patients remains unclear. Previous videos have focused on technical aspects of spinal anaesthesia without adequately addressing potential discomforts. This study seeks to bridge this gap by emphasizing specific sources of discomfort in the video content.
Research Questions Can an informative video highlighting potential sources of anxiety and dissatisfaction effectively alleviate these issues during the perioperative period? Is the video more effective than standard pre-anaesthetic counselling alone? Hypotheses Null Hypothesis: There is no significant difference in anxiety and satisfaction between patients who view the video and those who do not.
Alternative Hypothesis: Patients who view the video will have lower anxiety and higher satisfaction levels.
Objectives Evaluate if the video effectively reduces perioperative anxiety and dissatisfaction.
Determine if the video outperforms standard counselling in achieving these outcomes.
Methods
Study Design:
A prospective, randomized controlled trial at Universiti Malaya Medical Centre from July 2024 to June 2025.
Participants:
Inclusion criteria
Obstetric patients ASA II-III undergoing first elective Caesarean section under spinal anaesthesia.
Exclusion criteria
Patients under 18, ASA IV, diagnosed with morbid fetal conditions, or with psychiatric illness.
Randomization:
Participants are randomly assigned to two groups (Group V: Video, Group C: Control) using a computer-generated sequence. Allocation concealment is ensured through sealed envelopes.
Intervention:
The intervention group receives a QR code to access the informative video on their phones, with no viewing restrictions. The control group receives standard care.
Assessment Tools:
Anxiety: Spielberger State-Trait Anxiety Inventory (STAI), assessing pre- and post-operative anxiety levels.
Satisfaction: Maternal Satisfaction Scale for Caesarean Section (MSSCS), evaluating satisfaction post-surgery.
Sample Size:
A total of 75 participants (31 per group, accounting for a 20% dropout rate) are needed to detect a clinically significant reduction in anxiety.
Data Collection and Analysis Data are collected using standardized forms and questionnaires. Analysis is conducted with IBM SPSS to assess normal distribution and differences between groups. Statistical significance is determined at a p-value < 0.05.
Conclusion The study aims to demonstrate that an informative video addressing specific discomforts associated with spinal anaesthesia can significantly reduce anxiety and improve satisfaction in obstetric patients, offering a potentially superior alternative to standard pre-anaesthetic counselling.
