XAI-COMMHuman-Centered Communication on AI-Supported Imaging for Reduced Preoperative Anxiety and Improved Perceived Control

This study focuses on how patients feel and respond to the use of AI-supported real-time imaging systems in their care, particularly before surgery. It's common for patients to experience anxiety before an operation, and this study aims to understand if a clear, patient-friendly explanation about these technologies can help reduce this anxiety. The study is important as it doesn't just look at the technical side of AI in healthcare, but also considers the patient's psychological response. This could lead to better ways of communicating with patients about AI, improving their overall experience and satisfaction. Adults scheduled for elective surgery participate in this study. They are divided into two groups: one receives the usual pre-surgery information, while the other gets this standard information plus a brief, face-to-face explanation about AI-supported imaging systems. This explanation uses simple, non-technical language and covers the general purpose of these systems, their role in clinical practice, and their relation to patient safety. The study then measures changes in anxiety levels using the Amsterdam Preoperative Anxiety and Information Scale (APAIS). This scale is used before and after the information session, and the results are compared between the two groups.