A Thesis Submitted to Department of Anesthesia, College of Medicine and Health Science, University of Gondar for Partial Fulfilment of The Requirements of MSc Degree in Advanced Clinical Anesthesia

Abstract

Abstract Introduction: Thirst is a powerfully distressing sensation that occurs most frequently in the immediate postoperative period. Postoperative thirst is prevalent “the moderate-to-severe type is estimated to affect 53.2–69.8% of patients” and causes significant patient discomfort. Objective: The objective of this study was to assess the prevalence, and factors associated with postoperative thirst among surgical patients at the University of Gondar comprehensive specialized Hospital from April 20, to June 27, 2021. Methods: An institution-based cross-sectional study was conducted from April 20 to June 27, 2021, at the University of Gondar Comprehensive Specialized Hospital. A total of 424 participants were included in the study. Data were collected by chart review and interview of patients by using a questionnaire. Statistical analysis had performed using SPSS 26.00 version statistical software. Descriptive statistics were conducted to summarize patient’s information and to determine the prevalence of postoperative thirst. Binary logistic regression analysis was performed to identify the association between the prevalence of postoperative thirst and independent variables. The Bi-variable analysis had performed to determine each of the independent variables and only variables with p-value < 0.2 were entered into the multivariable analysis. The strength of the association was present by odds ratio and 95% Confidence interval. P-value <0.05 was considered statistically significant. Result: The prevalence of postoperative thirst among surgical patients was 59% with (95% CI= 54.74 – 64.13). Inadequate preloading (AOR= 2.137 95% CI 1.260-3.624), prolonged Nil Per Os (NPO) time (AOR= 13.80 95% CI 2.93 – 65.37), general anesthesia (AOR=3.90 95% CI 3.56-11.25), and axillary body temperature ? 37.5 oC (AOR=8.07 95% CI 3.63 – 17.96) were significantly associated with postoperative thirst. Low room temperature < 20 oC was protective from postoperative thirst with (AOR= 0.162 95% CI 0.37 – 0.707). Conclusion and recommendations: The prevalence of postoperative thirst is high in University of Gondar comprehensive specialized hospital. Body temperature > 37.5oC, NPO time > 15 hours, fluid preloading < 20ml/kg, and general anesthesia ware factors significantly associated with prevalence postoperative thirst. Keywords: perioperative thirst, post-operative care, prolonged NPO time, hyperthermi