Improving Patients' Surgical Experiences

by Vince Vacketta, DPM

What do patients really care about on operation day?

A 24‑hour flash-mob study conducted across eight Danish surgical units explored patients’ priorities on the day of surgery. 

The survey posed two key questions to patients:

• “What matters to you today?” 

• “Does the staff know?”

The responses underscored three primary patient desires:

1. Feeling safe, cared for, and informed

2. Receiving high‑quality anesthesia and post-operative care

3. Achieving a quick and successful surgical outcome

The study also uncovered a significant gap in communication: 29% of patients did not voice their concerns, often due to a fear of being a burden.

Takeaway

Engaging your patients about their concerns can significantly improve their experience.