The Relationship Between Knowledge Level and Adherence to Pre-Operative Fasting with Anesthesia Technique in Elderly Patients at RSI Banjarnegara

Preoperative fasting is a crucial procedure in preparing patients before anesthesia and surgery to reduce the risk of aspiration and other complications. However, patient compliance, particularly among the elderly, varies and is influenced by their level of knowledge. This research aims to analyze the relationship between knowledge level and compliance with preoperative fasting among elderly patients at Islamic Hospital (RSI) Banjarnegara. A quantitative method with a cross-sectional approach was emploved involving 94 elderly patients selected through Slovin formula. Data were collected using questionnaires and analyzed with the gamma correlation statistical test. The findings reveal that the majority of respondents (72.3%) have a low level of knowledge about preoperative fasting, while compliance in the "compliant" category is only 37.2%. Bivariate analysis indicates a very strong and statistically significant relationship between knowledge level and preoperative fasting compliance (p-value = 0.000; r = 0.978). These results emphasize the need to enhance education on the importance of preoperative fasting among the elderly to improve compliance and minimize perioperative risks. However, the research is limited by its reliance on self-reported data, which may introduce response bias, and its focus on a single hospital setting, potentially affecting the generalizability of the findings.