Assessment of knowledge levels amongst pre-operative patients regarding the importance of postmastectomy exercises for optimal outcome: ACross-sectional study

Background: Post-operative exercises play a crucial role in the recovery process for mastectomy patients. Assessing preoperative knowledge can guide effective educational interventions. Aim: The primary objective of the study was to evaluate the knowledge levels of pre-operative breast cancer patients regarding post-operative exercises. Materials and Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted from March 2021 to March 2022 at Female District Hospital and Satish Pandey Memorial (SCPM) Multi-Specialty Hospital, Gonda, Uttar Pradesh. Using a purposive sampling technique, 150 pre-operative breast cancer patients were selected. Data were collected via questionnaires assessing demographic variables and knowledge of post-operative exercises. Statistical analysis was conducted using SPSS, with significance set at 95% confidence interval. Results: Findings showed 27.3% of patients had no knowledge, 33.3% had inadequate knowledge, 27.3% had moderate knowledge, and 12% had adequate knowledge, with a mean score of 2.24 (SD = 0.98). Chi-square analysis indicated significant associations between knowledge levels and demographic factors such as age, education, occupation, family type, and living area, (p<0.05). Conclusion: The study highlights varied knowledge levels regarding post-operative exercises among mastectomy patients, with many showing inadequate understanding. Educational programs are essential to improve knowledge and promote better recovery outcomes.