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. 2010 Apr;20(4):318-22.
doi: 10.1111/j.1460-9592.2010.03263.x. Epub 2010 Feb 23.

Perioperative anxiety in children

Michelle A Fortier  1 , Antonio M Del Rosario, Sarah R Martin, Zeev N Kain
Affiliations

Perioperative anxiety in children

Michelle A Fortier et al. Paediatr Anaesth. 2010 Apr.

Abstract

OBJECTIVES & AIM: The purpose of this investigation was to examine children's anxiety across the perioperative setting.

Background: Although several studies have examined preoperative anxiety in children, few researchers have illustrated perioperative anxiety; that is, anxiety in children throughout the pre and postoperative continuum.

Methods: Participants were 261 children ages 2-12. Anxiety was rated prior to surgery, immediately after surgery, and for 2 weeks at home following surgery.

Results: Low child sociability and high parent anxiety predicted perioperative anxiety. Perioperative anxiety was related to postoperative pain and negative postoperative behavioral change.

Conclusions: Identification and prevention of anxiety in children can help prevent negative outcomes following surgery.

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