Effect of Video-Based Versus Verbal Preoperative Information on Anxiety and Cortisol Levels in Elective Cesarean Section

Preoperative anxiety is a common problem in patients undergoing elective cesarean section and may negatively affect perioperative outcomes through activation of the stress response, including increased cortisol levels. Effective preoperative information is considered a key non-pharmacological strategy to reduce anxiety; however, the optimal method of information delivery remains unclear. This prospective randomized controlled trial aims to compare the effects of video-based versus verbal preoperative information on anxiety levels and serum cortisol response in patients scheduled for elective cesarean delivery under spinal anesthesia. Anxiety will be assessed using the State-Trait Anxiety Inventory (STAI), and serum cortisol levels will be measured before and after the intervention. The findings of this study are expected to provide evidence for improving patient-centered preoperative education strategies in obstetric anesthesia."

Inclusion Criteria: * Pregnant women aged 18 years or older * Scheduled for elective cesarean delivery * Planned to receive spinal anesthesia * American Society of Anesthesiologists (ASA) physical status I-II * Ability to provide written informed consent Exclusion Criteria: * Emergency cesarean delivery * History of psychiatric disorders * Current use of anxiolytic or antidepressant medications * Endocrine disorders, particularly adrenal or thyroid disease * Current corticosteroid therapy * History of previous surgery under spinal anesthesia * Cognitive impairment preventing effective communication or completion of the assessment scales * American Society of Anesthesiologists (ASA) physical status III-V