[Influence of negative coping style on post-operative pain reporting and pain-related behaviour]

Abstract

Objective: The aim of the study is to show whether negative coping style has an impact on post-operative pain reporting and pain-related behaviour.

Methods: After informed consent 48 gynaecological patients were enrolled in the study. Negative coping style was assessed by using the stress coping questionnaire SVF-78 (Janke and Erdmann). Patients were dichotomised by scores of the negative coping style. Pain reporting concerned pain intensity and pain quality. Pain-related behaviour was assessed by patient-controlled analgesia (PCA). Pain intensity and pain quality were assessed prior to surgery and 24 h after surgery. Patient-controlled analgesia was recorded up to 24 h after surgery. Trait anxiety (STAI-X2) was used as a control variable.

Results: Patients with high scores in negative coping style report increased levels of pain in both affective and sensory pain perception. At the same time patient-controlled analgesia is used less frequently by this group. This result remains significant considering trait anxiety as a covariate.

Conclusions: High negative coping style may cause a discrepancy between pain reporting and pain-related behaviour. This should be taken into account in the perioperative care of patients.