Evaluation of the early postoperative period comfort level after total knee arthroplasty

The aim of this study was to determine the postoperative comfort level of individuals who underwent total knee arthroplasty and to evaluate the parameters that may affect it. By making inferences about these parameters, the study also aimed to develop recommendations for optimizing nursing care in order to improve quality of life and maintain well-being during the preoperative and early postoperative periods. The sample of the study consisted of 50 voluntary participants who underwent knee arthroplasty in the Orthopedics and Traumatology Department of Aksaray Training and Research Hospital between March 15, 2024, and July 15, 2024. The data were collected using a descriptive form created by the researchers, which included demographic information as well as parameters identified in the literature as potentially related to perioperative comfort. Additionally, the Turkish version of the Perianesthesia Comfort Scale, which has been validated and for which permission for use was obtained, was utilized. The findings of the study revealed that the postoperative comfort level of individuals who underwent total knee arthroplasty was more closely associated with surgical experience, postoperative pain level, and individual lifestyle habits than with demographic characteristics. In particular, pain severity, recovery room experience, and physical complaints experienced during surgery were found to significantly affect patient comfort. These results emphasize the importance of considering individual experiences and adopting patient-centered approaches in postoperative care. Keywords: Total Knee Arthroplasty, Comfort, Postoperative Period, Nursing Services