Determination of the effect of nursing education given before tympanoplasty surgery on the development of postoperative pain and complications.

OBJECTIVES

This study aimed to evaluate the effect of preoperative nursing education on postoperative pain levels and complication development in patients undergoing tympanoplasty.

MATERIAL AND

METHODS

The study included 56 patients scheduled for tympanoplasty at Department of ENT (Ear, Nose and Throat) Hacettepe University Adult Hospital. Participants were randomized into two groups: 28 in the control and 28 in the intervention group. The intervention group received preoperative nursing education on ear care, while the control group received routine care. Pain levels were measured using the Visual Analog Scale (VAS), and vital signs, complications, and psychological status were monitored through structured forms.

RESULTS

The groups were demographically homogeneous. Regarding the primary outcome, VAS scores on postoperative days 0, 1, and 6 decreased significantly over time in both groups, but no intergroup difference was found (p > 0.05). Male patients and primary school graduate patients had lower VAS scores. However, these differences were not statistically significant. The intervention group demonstrated significantly lower pulse rates (p = 0.043) and fewer psychological problems. Early postoperative nausea and vomiting were more frequent in the control group (p = 0.043).

CONCLUSION

Preoperative nursing education did not directly reduce postoperative pain, but it is associated with decreased complications and psychological stress, supporting improved recovery after tympanoplasty.

CLINICAL TRIAL REGISTRATION: www.clinicaltrials.gov identifier is NCT06717217.