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.