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Background

In a review and meta‐analysis conducted in 1993, psychological preparation was found to be beneficial for a range of outcome variables including pain, behavioural recovery, length of stay and negative affect. Since this review, more detailed bibliographic searching has become possible, additional studies testing psychological preparation for surgery have been completed and hospital procedures have changed. The present review examines whether psychological preparation (procedural information, sensory information, cognitive intervention, relaxation, hypnosis and emotion‐focused intervention) has impact on the outcomes of postoperative pain, behavioural recovery, length of stay and negative affect.

Objectives

To review the effects of psychological preparation on postoperative outcomes in adults undergoing elective surgery under general anaesthetic.