Abstract

This study aimed to identify the determinants of postoperative pain and satisfaction with nursing care among patients undergoing lumbar disc herniation (LDH) surgery. This observational cross-sectional study included 127 patients who underwent LDH surgery in a neurosurgery ward between 15 January and 30 July 2025. Data were collected using a patient information form, the Visual Analog Scale for Pain (VAS-P), and the Newcastle Satisfaction with Nursing Care Scale (SNCS). The mean postoperative VAS-P score was 3.57 ± 1.94, and the mean SNCS score was 81.76 ± 7.14. Higher postoperative pain was significantly associated with longer surgery duration (p < 0.001), longer postoperative hospital stays (p = 0.006), and longer duration of preoperative LDH-related pain (p = 0.006). Greater satisfaction with nursing care was associated with lower pain levels (p = 0.024). Determinants of higher nursing care satisfaction included BMI ≥ 30 (p = 0.020), undergoing surgery due to pain rather than difficulty performing daily activities (p = 0.012), and lower postoperative pain (p = 0.026). Longer surgery duration, extended preoperative pain duration, and prolonged hospitalization increase postoperative pain, while higher BMI and lower pain levels positively contribute to nursing care satisfaction. These findings underscore the importance of individualized pain management and patient-centered nursing approaches to improve postoperative recovery and satisfaction.

Key words: Lumbar vertebrae, intervertebral disc displacement, postoperative pain, nursing care, patient satisfaction