Assessment of patients’ psychosocial needs by surgeons

Abstract

Aim: This study was conducted to identify the views of surgeons regarding the assessment of patients’ psychosocial needs and how these needs were addressed. Material and Methods: A qualitative descriptive design was used in the study. The views of fifteen surgeons working in the surgery clinics of a research hospital in Turkey were evaluated with a qualitative pattern by using semi-structured questions. Results: Data analysis of individual interviews revealed two main themes: (1) Psychosocial needs are important, (2) Psychosocial needs should be met. It was emphasized the importance of assessing patients’ psychosocial needs. The surgeons pointed out using various methods to meet the psychosocial needs of their patients. They listened to the patients and tried to understand and empathize with them regarding their present psychosocial problems. Conclusion: The results of the study are remarkable for their emphasis on the importance of the assessment of patients’ psychosocial needs from the surgeons’ point of view. If the psychosocial needs of surgical patients are assessed, anxiety and depression may be prevented. Furthermore, such an assessment could help patients’ pre- and post-surgery adjustment, thus exerting a positive effect on patient recovery.