Distress, Pain, and Nausea on Postoperative Days 1 and 14 in Women Recovering From Breast-Conserving Surgery: A Repeated-Measures Study.

OBJECTIVES

To determine the incidence and trajectory of distress, pain, and nausea and vomiting at postoperative day (POD) 1 and at POD 14 following breast-conserving surgery.

SAMPLE &

SETTING

75 women aged 18 years or older receiving breast-conserving surgery with sentinel lymph node biopsy for treatment of early-stage primary breast cancer at an ambulatory surgery center.

METHODS & VARIABLES: This prospective, repeated-measures study assessed distress, pain, and nausea and vomiting using the National Comprehensive Cancer Network Distress Thermometer and Problem List on POD 1 and POD 14.

RESULTS

Pain and distress scores were highest on POD 1. The number of women who reported depression increased from POD 1 to POD 14. Thematic analysis revealed that family concerns, fears and worries, and postoperative issues contributed to pain and distress.

IMPLICATIONS FOR NURSING: Women experience pain and distress during recovery at home after breast-conserving surgery. Nurses can use these results to apply evidence-based practice to reduce this symptom burden. Future nursing research should focus on targeted interventions outside of the hospital setting.