Journal of cardiothoracic and vascular anesthesia
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J. Cardiothorac. Vasc. Anesth. · Jun 2007
Patient understanding of the importance of beta-blocker use in the perioperative period.
Perioperative beta-adrenergic blockade has been shown to decrease morbidity and mortality after noncardiac surgery. The objective of this study was to determine patient knowledge of the importance of perioperative beta-blockade in a population already taking chronic therapy and to assess the effectiveness of medical and surgical providers in patient education regarding these benefits. ⋯ This study suggests low patient understanding of the potential importance and reasons for perioperative beta-blockade. Patients who recognized perioperative benefit identified antihypertensive versus cardioprotective effects. Clinicians can improve education of patients already taking daily beta-blockers regarding these potential benefits.