Patients' Perception and Understanding Towards Anesthesia and Anesthetists at Tertiary Care Hospitals of District Mardan: A Cross-Sectional Study from Mardan KP

Abstract

Background: Anesthesia is integral to patient care during the peri-operative period. Despite advancements, public knowledge about the anesthesiologist's extensive responsibilities and critical role in healthcare remains limited. This study explores the understanding and perceptions of anesthesia and anesthetists among patients at Mardan Medical Complex. Objective: To assess patients’ perceptions and understanding of anesthesia and anesthetists’ roles, identifying factors influencing their knowledge levels. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted at Mardan Medical Complex, KP, from June to September 2023. Participants were interviewed using a structured questionnaire that collected socio-demographic data, knowledge about anesthesia, and perceptions of anesthetists. The chi-square test was utilized to explore associations between categorical variables. Results: A total of 309 participants were enrolled, with a response rate of 100%. The demographic breakdown was 159 males (51.5%) and 150 females (48.5%). Only 84 participants (27.2%) demonstrated an understanding of anesthetists’ roles, and 87 (28.2%) claimed knowledge of anesthesia. Significant associations were found between levels of education (p<0.001) and occupation (p<0.001) and the knowledge of anesthesia. Conclusion: There is a marked deficiency in knowledge and understanding of anesthesia and the pivotal role of anesthetists among the patients surveyed. This underscores the need for targeted educational initiatives to enhance patient and public awareness of anesthesiology’s critical functions in healthcare.