Preparing a patient for surgery: consent, information, and emotional support

The gyneacologic surgeon who is willing to develop some sophistication concerning the psychological aspects of pelvic surgery and the legal rights of patients can be expected to enjoy a more grateful and appreciative following. In those circumstances in which the surgeon feels uncomfortable or uncertain about the patient's psychological ability to successfully complete surgery, psychiatric referral should be obtained early in the preoperative evaluation. It is important that the surgeon recognize the importance of a secure and positive doctor patient relationship and also the importance of preoperative hope. In order to provide truly informed consent the patient should have a sense of participation in the decisions concerning surgery and should be particularly appraised of available options. Proper utilization of ancillary professional staff to assist in patient education, surgical preparation, and emotional support may pay unusual dividends.