Qualitative analysis of preoperative assessment practices in elective surgery at Kenyatta and mater hospitals in Kenya

Abstract

Preoperative patient assessment practice has been reported to vary with institutions and individual perioperative nurses. Aim: To evaluate preoperative assessment practices in two selected hospitals. Methodology Design:Qualitative design Study areas: A public and a private hospital. Target population: Theatre in-charges Sampling method: Purposive Method: Key informant interviews Study tools: An interview guide Data analysis:Content analysis of qualitative data. Data presentation was in themes, subthemesand narratives. Results: Preoperative assessment practice was reported to be consistentin the private setting unlike the public setting.Discussion: Although the private setting conducted preoperative assessment, someomissions in key areas of focus pertinent to perioperative nursing were eminent. The public hospital was constrained from practicing by thetheatre overwhelming workload and shortage of perioperative nursing staffs. Conclusion:Preoperative assessment practice imperativeforquality surgical care is dwindling amongperioperative nurses. Hence, strategies need to be put in place to enhance quality. Recommendation: The study recommends facilitation of the assessment practice by providing enabling environment and use a tool as a guideto the assessment. Key words –elective surgery; preoperative assessment practice; preoperative assessment