Satisfaction with Postoperative Pain Management in Hospitalized Patients

Abstract

Purpose: The purpose of this study was to identify satisfaction with pain management in hospitalized patients and how it relates to the intensity of pain, relief and the guidance provided to the patient for postoperative pain management. Study Materials and Methods: This is a descriptive/correlational study featuring systematic random sampling in a group of 193 patients. The Pain Intensity Questionnaire and a fact sheet were used. Results: In all, 48.2% of the participants reported severe pain as the most pain experienced during the first 24 hours. With regard to pain relief, 77.7% had adequate management and 85.5% received preoperative guidance. Satisfaction was at 9.54 (SD = 1.08). There was a significant difference in patient satisfaction, depending on whether or not the patient received guidance (t = 71.23, p = 0.001). Satisfaction was greater among those who received guidance (M = 9.65) (SD = 0.84). Patient satisfaction with pain management is determined by maximum postoperative pain and the preoperative guidance received for its management (R2 = 0.17, p = 0.000). Conclusions: Appropriate management of pain in postoperative patients who are hospitalized requires assessing of the level of pain at the appropriate time and offering guidance to the patient. These are fundamental aspects in which nursing plays a vital role and are key to increasing satisfaction.