Effect of clinical pharmacist consultation on postoperative pain, quality of life, and patient satisfaction after pacemaker implantation: A randomized controlled trial.

BACKGROUND

Effective management of postoperative pain is vital for recovery following pacemaker (PM) implantation. This study evaluated a pain management protocol incorporating clinical pharmacist consultation to improve patient outcomes and healthcare utilization.

METHODS

In this randomized, unblinded controlled trial, 60 adults undergoing PM implantation were assigned to either standard care (control) or standard care plus a structured clinical pharmacist consultation (intervention). Pain intensity was measured daily (Days 0-10) using the Numeric Pain Rating Scale. Quality of Life (QoL) was assessed on Days 0, 1, 7, and 10 via European Quality of Life 5-Dimensions 5-Levels (EQ-5D-5L) version and European Quality of Life visual analogue scale (EQ-VAS) instruments. Patient satisfaction was measured on Day 10 using the Short Assessment of Patient Satisfaction (SAPS).

RESULTS

Pain intensity and QoL scores improved significantly over time in both groups, with no statistically significant differences between groups. Medication adherence, physician contacts, and unresolved adverse effects were comparable between groups. In contrast, patient satisfaction scores were significantly higher in the intervention group, particularly regarding care, communication, and perceived respect.

CONCLUSION

Clinical pharmacist consultation did not significantly alter postoperative pain intensity or QoL outcomes following PM implantation. However, it was associated with higher patient satisfaction, suggesting a meaningful contribution to the patient experience. Further studies with larger sample sizes and longer follow-up periods are warranted to clarify the impact of pharmacist involvement on clinical outcomes.