Preoperative Anxiety in Eastern Nepal (PAEN)

This study is looking at how many adults feel nervous or worried before planned surgery at two hospitals in eastern Nepal. We will include men and women aged 18 to 80 who are having elective operations. On the day of the preoperative check, the participant will be asked to complete a very short, six-question survey about how anxious the participant feels and how much information the participant wants. It takes about five minutes, and the participant can answer by choosing responses like "not at all," "somewhat," or "extremely." The investigating anesthesiologist will also make a quick, private note of how anxious they think you are based on their routine pre-anaesthesia check. All of the participant answers and the doctor's note will be kept strictly confidential and stored securely. Joining the study is entirely voluntary. Deciding not to take part or choosing to leave the study at any time will not change the medical care you receive. There are no extra costs or medical tests beyond what you would normally have. By sharing your experience, the participant helps us understand what makes patients feel anxious before surgery and how the investigators can improve support and information for future patients.