International journal of obstetric anesthesia
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Int J Obstet Anesth · Jul 1996
Information and concerns about obstetric anesthesia: a survey of 320 obstetric patients.
This study was undertaken to assess women's knowledge and concerns about obstetric anesthesia and to determine if they perceive a need for an anesthesia interview before the onset of labor. A 17 item questionnaire was distributed to 407 women on postpartum day one. The women were questioned about their knowledge, anxiety and concerns regarding obstetric anesthesia. ⋯ The majority (59%) of the women would have wanted a preoperative visit with an anesthesiologist before labor. These results illustrate that most women are anxious about obstetric anesthesia and do not feel adequately prepared. Efforts at educating women about obstetric anesthesia would be welcomed by them and methods to accomplish this goal are discussed.