Assessment of Sleep Quality and Level of Fatigue in Surgically Treated Patients

Abstract

Introduction:Sleep is a physiological need of every person and ensures proper quality of physical and mental health. The symptom of fatigue lowers quality of life, making it difficult to function in physical, mental, and social dimensions. Poor sleep quality and the symptom of fatigue are often observed in surgically treated patients. Objective and Methodology:The aim of the study was to assess the quality of sleep and the level of fatigue in surgically treated patients at three time intervals -the day before the surgery (Study I), the day of the surgery (Study II), and the day of discharge from the hospital (Study III). Additionally, an attempt was made to determine the relationship between the subjective assessment of sleep quality and the symptom of fatigue and the following variables: gender, pain, anxiety, surgical site, and surgical method. The study included 60 patients. Data were collected using the PSQI and FACIT-F questionnaires. Conclusion:A relationship between fatigue and sleep in surgically treated patients was demonstrated. Surgically treated patients have better sleep quality at home before the procedure than during their stay in the hospital after the procedure. The location and method of the surgical procedure did not affect the patients' sleep quality. Pain was indicated as one of the main factors worsening sleep quality after surgery by 31.7% of patients. Women and men experience fatigue with different frequency and intensity. Surgically treated patients have reduced sleep quality and increased fatigue levels. Taking these aspects into account will allow for holistic planning of the treatment and care process in surgically treated patients.