Perceived Effect and Coping Strategy of Post-Operative Pain Management on Early Mobilization among Patients in National Orthopaedic Hospital, Igbobi, Lagos State, Nigeria

Abstract

Early patient mobilization is one of the most important factors in postoperative pain management, especially in orthopedic patients. Poor pain management can lead to delayed recovery, poor functional status, and high healthcare costs. This study assessed the perceived impact of postoperative pain management on early patient mobilization at the National Orthopedic Hospital, Igbobi, Lagos State, Nigeria. A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted among 152 patients using simple random sampling. Data were collected using a structured questionnaire and analyzed using SPSS version 29 software, with results presented in descriptive form and graphical illustrations. The study population was predominantly middle-aged (36.2%), male (73.0%), married, and had undergone major surgery (67.1%). Pain management techniques used included positioning and immobilization (36.2%), physiotherapy (32.2%), and analgesics (21.1%). Despite this, 54.6% of the patients suffered severe pain in the last 24 hours, with only 15.8% mobilized within 12 hours of surgery. Pain intensity (23.7%), fear of injury (25.7%), and lack of motivation (27.0%) were the major barriers to mobilization. Deep breathing exercises (39.5%) and relaxation techniques (27.6%) were employed as coping mechanisms, but communication barriers and cultural beliefs were major limitations. The results bring to light the shortcomings in pain management strategies and their effects on delayed early mobilization. Nurses are critical in filling these gaps through patient education, cultural competency in communication, and inter-professional collaboration for early ambulation and optimal recovery. It was recommended that improving patient and nurse communication, integrating cultural competency into treatment plans, and encouraging early mobilization are critical strategies that nurses can use to improve outcomes and achieve early mobilization in orthopedic patients.