Abstract

The aim of this article is to review the literature pertaining to the perioperative nursing activity of information-giving. The relationship between anxiety, coping strategies and information giving will be discussed, with further consideration of how informational care is affected by the nurse-patient relationship. Inter-related concepts of information giving will be explored as the article develops. Conclusion: Whilst literary debate may continue, as to the underlying goal of preoperative information-giving, the responsibility of the perioperative nurse is to reflect in action (Schon 1983), utilise nursing knowledge and with due regard to assessment determine the nature and scope of information required by the patient. Appropriate competent care is dependent upon interpersonal skill, individualised patient assessment and the nurse's reflexivity between the philosophies of caring and empowerment.