Parameters that Affect the Comfort Level of Pregnant Women Before Cesarean Section: Fasting and Anxiety

Abstract

This study aimed to investigate whether fasting time and anxiety parameters affect pregnant women's preoperative comfort levels. Cross-sectional descriptive study. Data were collected from pregnant women using the State-Trait Anxiety Inventory (STAI), General Comfort Questionnaire (GCQ), and Numerical Rating Scale. The mean age of the participants was 29.15±4.54years, and the spinal anesthesia rate was 65.5%. The mean fasting time was 13.16±2.38hours for solid food and 10.57±2.91hours for liquid food. The mean GCQ score was 129.82±12.66, while the mean STAI subscale scores were 46.72±9.37 and 43.65±7.95. Moderately negative correlation was found between the total GCQ and STAI scores, while weak positive correlation was observed between the STAI score and the thirst sensation and mouth dryness. The preoperative process negatively affects comfort levels of pregnant women. Interventions that reduce the fasting time and anxiety level of pregnant women will increase comfort.