HEALING HANDS, CALMING HEARTS: THE IMPACT OF NURSE-PATIENT COMMUNICATION ON ANXIETY AND SATISFACTION IN SURGICAL CARE.

Abstract

Background Effective nurse–patient communication is a cornerstone of quality surgical care, directly influencing patient satisfaction, psychological outcomes, and recovery. Preoperative anxiety is a common concern among surgical patients, and improving communication skills through structured training programs has been shown to enhance care delivery. However, empirical evidence on the predictive strength of communication, anxiety reduction, and training on patient satisfaction in surgical settings remains limited. Aim This study aimed to examine the predictors of patient satisfaction with nursing care, focusing on nurse–patient communication, anxiety reduction, and communication training interventions. Methods A quantitative, cross-sectional design was employed with surgical patients recruited from a tertiary care hospital. Patient satisfaction was measured through validated scales, while communication was assessed using the Communication Assessment Tool (CAT) and anxiety reduction through changes in State–Trait Anxiety Inventory (ΔSTAI) scores. Multiple regression analysis was performed to identify significant predictors. Results The regression model was statistically significant, explaining a substantial proportion of variance in patient satisfaction. Nurse–patient communication (β = .47, p < .001) emerged as the strongest predictor, followed by anxiety reduction (β = .29, p < .001). Nurse communication training also significantly contributed to satisfaction (β = .18, p = .006). Collectively, these predictors highlight the multidimensional impact of communication-focused interventions on patient experiences. Conclusion Enhancing nurse–patient communication and implementing strategies to reduce patient anxiety significantly improve satisfaction with surgical care. Structured communication training should be prioritized in nursing practice and education to ensure sustained improvements in patient-centered care.