The Effect of Preoperative Psychological Well-Being on Postoperative Pain and Physiological Parameters in Women Undergoing Mastectomy

Toprak Ç., YILDIRIM VARIŞOĞLU Y., Öztürk Ş., Ulukaya H. E., Sevim K. Z.

Pain Management Nursing, 2026 (SCI-Expanded, SSCI, Scopus) identifier identifier

  • Publication Type: Article / Article
  • Publication Date: 2026
  • Doi Number: 10.1016/j.pmn.2026.03.011
  • Journal Name: Pain Management Nursing
  • Journal Indexes: Science Citation Index Expanded (SCI-EXPANDED), Social Sciences Citation Index (SSCI), Scopus, CINAHL, MEDLINE, Psycinfo
  • Keywords: Breast cancer, Mastectomy, Physiological parameters, Postoperative pain, Psychological well-being
  • Istanbul University Affiliated: Yes

Abstract

Background The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of preoperative psychological well-being on postoperative pain and physiological parameters in women undergoing mastectomy for breast cancer. Methods This descriptive, cross-sectional study was conducted at the General Surgery Clinic of a Training and Research Hospital in Istanbul between July 2024 and April 2025. A total of 69 women who underwent mastectomy participated in the study. Data were collected using a demographic information form, psychological well-being scale, visual analog scale for pain, and a physiological parameter form including pulse rate, blood pressure, body temperature, and respiratory rate. Results Women who underwent bilateral mastectomy reported significantly lower psychological well-being and higher postoperative pain levels compared to those who underwent unilateral mastectomy (p < .05). Conclusions In conclusion, this study shows that preoperative psychological well-being is related to postoperative pain levels and physiological parameters. Psychological assessment and support should be integrated into preoperative nursing care, particularly for patients undergoing bilateral mastectomy.