Effects of classical music and supervisory authority on anxiety and surgical performance in veterinary students during first ovariohysterectomy

Abstract

Anxiety during the first live-animal surgery represents a major challenge in veterinary training, potentially affecting both performance and learning outcomes. Classical music has been suggested as a non-invasive strategy to moderate stress, while the degree of supervisory authority may further modulate students’ emotional and behavioural responses. This study evaluated the effects of classical music exposure and supervisory authority on perioperative anxiety and surgical performance in final-year veterinary students performing their first feline ovariohysterectomy. Forty students were randomly allocated into four groups (n = 10 each): assistant professor supervision without music (AP), assistant professor with music (AP-M), research assistant without music (RA), and research assistant with music (RA-M). Music consisted of Mozart’s Sonata for Two Pianos in D Major, K.448, delivered via headphones for 30 min preoperatively. Anxiety was measured using the State-Trait Anxiety Inventory before and after intervention and following surgery. Operative duration was recorded from skin incision to closure. The AP-M was associated with increased state anxiety, whereas no significant changes occurred in other groups. Operative times were longest in AP-M and RA, and shortest in RA-M. Trait anxiety correlated positively with operative duration, while state anxiety was not directly linked to performance. In conclusion, music may heighten anxiety under high-authority supervision but improve efficiency in less authoritative contexts. Educational strategies should prioritise supportive supervision and consider tailoring auditory interventions to optimise student wellbeing and performance.