Psychosocial Predictors of Preoperative Anxiety among Surgical Patients in University College Hospital, Ibadan. Nigeria.

Preoperative fear affects 60–80% of surgical patients, driven by uncertainty about the
procedure, anesthesia, and possible lifestyle changes, leading to adverse effects on health
outcomes and recovery. This study investigates psychosocial factors—religiosity and locus of
control—that may predict preoperative fear among surgical patients at University College
Hospital, Ibadan. This cross-sectional study was carried out among 250 surgical patients. A
self-report questionnaire was used to assess the variables of concern in the study. Statistical
analyses revealed significant correlations between these factors and preoperative anxiety
levels. Higher religiosity correlated with lower anxiety (t (248) = -3.91, p < 0.001, Cohen's d
= 5.52), highlighting anxiety-reducing benefits of religious beliefs. In contrast, locus of control
dimensions showed varying effects on anxiety responses (F (2, 247) = 4.15, p = 0.018). Anxiety
and fear before surgery affects postoperative pain. Patients with a stronger internal locus of
control reported lower anxiety compared to those with external' control beliefs, indicating the
differences in perceived control over anxiety levels. These findings underscore the complex
interplay of psychosocial factors in shaping the preoperative anxiety, informing targeted
interventions to optimize patient well-being and surgical outcomes. This study highlights that
psychosocial factors such as religiosity and locus of control significantly influence
preoperative anxiety levels among surgical patients, suggesting targeted interventions may
enhance patient outcomes. Providing patients with clear, empathetic information about the
psychological dimensions of surgery, potential stressors, and coping strategies can alleviate
anxiety.