From Fear to Calm: Helping Patients Overcome Surgical Anxiety

From the moment I stepped into the operating room at the American University of Beirut Medical Center (AUBMC), I knew this was more than just a job; it was a calling. As a fresh graduate, the sight of blood and the high-stress environment were daunting. Yet, with unwavering support from my colleagues and the hospital, I transformed from a tentative novice into a confident, compassionate nurse dedicated to providing exceptional care.

One of the most memorable experiences in my career was with a patient who had a deep-seated phobia of closed spaces. This fear, rooted in her childhood, was exacerbated by the thought of undergoing surgery. Sensing her anxiety, I decided to employ techniques I had learned from my yoga training, which I took up to manage the stress inherent in our profession. With her consent, I guided her through a meditation exercise, accompanied by calming music designed to stimulate alpha and beta brainwaves, reducing stress. Holding her hand, I led her through breathing exercises, helping her find a sense of peace and control.

As we moved to the induction room for her IV insertion, I continued to support her, both physically and emotionally. The transformation was remarkable; her fear dissipated, replaced by a calm confidence. The surgery was a success, not just because of the medical expertise involved, but because of the trust and connection we established. This experience reaffirmed my belief that nursing goes beyond medical procedures; it’s about holistic care and emotional support.

My journey into nursing was not straightforward. Initially, I wanted to pursue a career in business, driven by a passion for the corporate world. However, at my father's urging and considering the needs of our country, I enrolled in nursing school alongside my business studies. Balancing both was challenging, and eventually, I chose to focus solely on nursing. Despite my initial fear of blood and the intricacies of patient care, the encouragement from patients and mentors propelled me forward. One patient, in particular, played a pivotal role. During my training, I was terrified of causing him pain while inserting an IV. He insisted that I proceed, saying, "If we don’t support our nurses, who will?" This moment of trust and encouragement marked a turning point in my career.

In essence, nursing has taught me invaluable lessons about resilience, compassion, and the profound impact of human connection. Every challenge, every fear overcome, and every smile shared with a patient reaffirms my dedication to this noble profession. My journey is a testament to the power of support, innovation, and unwavering commitment to patient care.