Attitudes, beliefs, and expectations of gynecological patients toward postoperative pain and its managementt.

Nimmaanrat, Sasikaan; Liabsuetrakul, Tippawan; Uakritdathikarn, Thida; Wasinwong, Wirat

Attitudes, beliefs, and expectations of gynecological patients toward postoperative pain and its managementt.

Date

2007-11-10

Authors

Nimmaanrat, Sasikaan

Liabsuetrakul, Tippawan

Uakritdathikarn, Thida

Wasinwong, Wirat

Abstract

OBJECTIVE: To examine the attitudes, beliefs, and expectations of gynecological patients regarding postoperative pain and management. MATERIAL AND METHOD: A prospective study performed in 112 patients undergoing major gynecological surgery, using a preoperative questionnaire regarding expectations toward postoperative pain and management and a postoperative questionnaire regarding actual pain experience, attitudes, and beliefs about pain and management. RESULTS: The majority expected (92%) and experienced (89%) postoperative pain at moderate to very severe levels. The median visual analog scales (VAS) of expected and maximum experienced pain were 6.4 and 6 6, respectively. Ninety-eight percent reported at least moderate pain relief from the analgesics administered. Ninety-two percent were satisfied with their pain management. A significant number held misconceptions about postoperative pain and its management. CONCLUSION: Patients should be preoperatively advised regarding postoperative pain and management. Misunderstandings should be corrected to improve the quality and adequacy of postoperative pain management.

Description

Chotmaihet Thangphaet.

Citation

Nimmaanrat S, Liabsuetrakul T, Uakritdathikarn T, Wasinwong W. Attitudes, beliefs, and expectations of gynecological patients toward postoperative pain and its managementt. Journal of the Medical Association of Thailand. 2007 Nov; 90(11): 2344-51