To Determine how the Severity of Pain Relates to the Quality of Sleep Following Tube Thoracostomy

Abstract

Background: Tube thoracostomy (TT) is a prevalent procedure in the management of various thoracic conditions, including pneumothorax, pleural effusion, and chest trauma. Despite its widespread use, TT is associated with significant complications such as pain and impaired sleep quality, which can affect patient recovery and overall health outcomes. Objective: This study aims to explore the relationship between pain severity and sleep quality following tube thoracostomy and to assess the impact of pain management on postoperative recovery. Methods: A descriptive, prospective, cross-sectional study was conducted at Dr. Ruth K. M. Pfau Civil Hospital Karachi and Dow University of Health Sciences from September 28, 2022, to March 27, 2023. The study included adults aged 18 to 70 who underwent TT for any indication. Patients were excluded if they withheld consent, had a history of substance use, psychological disorders, or were victims of poly-trauma. Pain severity was assessed using a visual analogue scale (VAS) and sleep quality was evaluated using the Richards-Campbell Sleep Questionnaire (RCSQ). Data were analyzed using SPSS version 25, employing descriptive statistics and Spearman correlation tests. Results: The study involved 77 participants with a mean age of 28.33 ± 10.50 years. The mean pain scores on postoperative days 1, 2, and 3 were 8.08 ± 0.66, 6.92 ± 0.99, and 4.92 ± 1.37, respectively. Corresponding sleep quality scores were 17.50 ± 7.53, 36.67 ± 9.84, and 57.50 ± 10.55. A significant negative correlation was found between pain scores and sleep quality scores on day 3 (r = -0.744, p < 0.001). Conclusion: The findings suggest a significant association between lower pain scores and improved sleep quality among patients undergoing tube thoracostomy. Effective pain management may enhance sleep quality and facilitate recovery, highlighting the need for comprehensive postoperative care strategies in these patients.