This study is a pilot randomized controlled trial (RCT) conducted at Tin Shui Wai Hospital to evaluate the effectiveness of a mobile-based mindfulness intervention in reducing preoperative anxiety among patients scheduled for elective surgery.
Aim: To determine if a 4-week mindfulness program delivered via a mobile app can reduce preoperative anxiety, compared to standard care.
Design:
Parallel-arm RCT with 40 participants (20 in each group). Participants are randomly assigned to either the intervention group (mobile-based mindfulness intervention + usual care) or control group (usual care only).
The intervention uses a free and anonymous mindfulness mobile app developed by The University of Hong Kong.
Primary Outcome:
Preoperative anxiety level on the day of surgery, will be assessed using the STAI-S questionnaire.
Secondary Outcomes:
Postoperative pain levels, use of analgesics, emergency department revisit rate, and user satisfaction with the app.
Data Collection:
Anxiety levels are measured at baseline and before surgery. Pain levels and analgesic use are recorded postoperatively. Emergency visits and usability feedback are collected post-discharge.
Significance:
The study addresses a gap in evidence for mobile mindfulness interventions in Chinese surgical patients.
Findings may support the integration of low-cost, app-based mindfulness into preoperative care.
adult (age>= 18 years old)
scheduled to undergo non-emergency surgery under general anesthesia (GA)
use of smart phone
able to understand the Chinese language and express their feelings sufficiently
unable to provide informed consent
history or current treatment for psychological complaints
serious physical or psychological co-morbidities
hearing or vision impairment