ASSESSING THE RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN CULTURAL BELIEFS AND PAIN EXPRESSION IN POSTOPERATIVE PATIENTS: A MIXED-METHOD STUDY AT SGTH

Abstract

Background: Pain is a subjective experience shaped not only by physiological factors but also by sociocultural influences. Cultural beliefs significantly affect how patients perceive, express, and manage pain, especially in postoperative settings. In culturally diverse populations, healthcare providers often face challenges in interpreting pain behaviors, leading to inadequate pain assessment and treatment.

Aim: This study aimed to examine the relationship between cultural beliefs and pain expression among postoperative patients admitted at Saidu Group of Teaching Hospitals (SGTH).

Methods: A mixed-method design was employed, incorporating both quantitative and qualitative approaches. The quantitative phase used a descriptive cross-sectional design with purposive sampling of 100 adult postoperative patients. Data were collected using a structured questionnaire assessing demographics, cultural beliefs, and pain expression. SPSS version 27 was used for statistical analysis, including chi-square and Pearson correlation tests. The qualitative phase involved semi-structured interviews with 10 patients, analyzed using thematic analysis to explore deeper cultural perspectives on pain.

Results: Statistically significant associations were found between cultural beliefs and pain expression patterns (p < 0.05). Patients who believed in silent endurance of pain showed minimal or no expression, and those with strong traditional healing beliefs were less likely to request painkillers. Qualitative findings revealed key themes such as stoicism, religious framing of pain, gender expectations, traditional remedies, and communication barriers.

Conclusion: Cultural beliefs deeply influence postoperative pain expression. Integrating cultural competence in pain assessment and management can improve patient outcomes and satisfaction in surgical care