Determining the Effect of Preoperative Education on Orthopedic Surgery Patients on Pain Beliefs and Pain-Related Care Needs in the Postoperative Period

The assessment of pain plays a crucial role in pain management. Nurses are instrumental in the identification, evaluation, and initiation of pain management strategies. In the literature, it is strongly recommended to provide education about postoperative pain management to patients, their families, and those responsible for patient care. Additionally, the development of a pain management plan and goals is advocated.

The optimal timing, content, and objectives of patient education depend on the type of pain (acute or chronic), the availability and effectiveness of treatment, and the patient's level of education and literacy. Educating individuals undergoing elective surgery or outpatient treatment about the likelihood and magnitude of acute pain they may experience, as well as informing them about available methods to prevent or alleviate this pain, is critical for pain management. Shindo et al. conducted a study suggesting that perioperative pain education significantly reduces postoperative opioid use.

According to the Health Belief Model, an individual's perception of health is influenced by their perception of the value of health, beliefs about illness, and beliefs about the consequences of illness. Therefore, when a patient's health beliefs and attitudes are determined, health education and treatment planning can be tailored more appropriately.

Preoperative education is a significant component of the surgical process. Preoperative patient education is known to contribute to reduced postoperative pain and anxiety, as well as early discharge. Grä Sjöling et al. (2003) demonstrated in their study that preoperative education/information had an impact on postoperative pain scores. Furthermore, another study indicated that the majority of patients' greatest concern was the pain they might experience in the postoperative period. The information provided to patients about pain is associated with a high level of satisfaction. In this study, the aim is to determine the beliefs about postoperative pain and pain scores of patients undergoing orthopedic surgery following preoperative education. In this context, the study also aims to highlight the importance of involving patients in pain management and the preoperative patient education in the literature.

In this regard, the objective of the study is to examine the effects of postoperative mobilization times on patients' recovery status, pain levels, quality of life, and the development of complications after spinal surgery. By reporting the results of the study, it is anticipated that contributions will be made to the literature and that it will serve as a source for future research.