Correlation Between Pain Intensity and Oxygen Saturation in Post-Surgical Patients

Authors

  • Ircham Saifudin Institute of Technology, Science, and Health, Dr. Soepraoen Hospital, V/BRW Military District
  • Widigdo Rekso Negoro
  • Annes Rindy Permana
  • Sindu Sintara
  • Muhammad Rodli
  • Reko Priyonggo

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.48079/jika.v8i2.138

Keywords:

Pain management, postoperative pain, oxygenation, surgical patients, oxygen saturation, SpO2

Abstract

Postoperative pain remains a common clinical problem that affects patient recovery, including physiological functions such as oxygenation. This study aimed to evaluate the relationship between pain intensity and oxygen saturation levels in postoperative patients. A quantitative cross-sectional design was employed, involving 208 postoperative patients from a private hospital in East Java. Data were collected retrospectively from medical records, including patient characteristics, pain levels based on the Numeric Rating Scale (NRS), and oxygen saturation measured using a pulse oximeter. The association between variables was examined through a Chi-Square statistical test. The findings revealed that most patients (74%) experienced severe pain, and nearly half (49.5%) had oxygen saturation levels below the normal range. A significant association was found between pain intensity and oxygen saturation (p < 0.001), with an odds ratio of 25.505. These results suggest that pain affects not only subjective patient experience but also vital physiological parameters. Therefore, integrating pain assessment with oxygenation monitoring is essential in postoperative care to enhance patient outcomes and recovery.

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Published

2025-10-23