AIM

This study was conducted to compare the predictive effect of spiritual well-being and pain intensity on pain catastrophizing of individuals with acute and chronic pain.

DESIGN

This research is a cross-sectional and comparative study.

METHODS

The study included 116 individuals with chronic pain and 111 individuals with acute pain. The study data were collected using the Descriptive Characteristics Questionnaire, Pain Catastrophizing Scale, Three-Factor Spiritual Well-Being Scale, Turkish Graded Chronic Pain Scale-Revised (TurGCPS-R) and Numerical Rating Scale.

RESULTS

The pain catastrophizing levels of individuals with chronic pain were significantly higher than individuals with acute pain. There was a statistically significant negative correlation between spiritual well-being and pain catastrophizing levels in both groups. The strength of this relationship was stronger in individuals with chronic pain. Spiritual well-being and pain intensity explained 53% of the total variance in pain catastrophizing in the chronic pain group, while they explained 34% in the acute pain group.

CONCLUSIONS

As a result of the study, it was determined that as the level of spiritual well-being increased, the pain catastrophizing and pain intensity decreased in acute and chronic pain patients. In addition, spiritual well-being was an important predictor of pain catastrophizing in both acute and chronic pain patients.

CLINICAL IMPLICATIONS

Because pain has a multidimensional structure, evaluating all dimensions of pain and providing holistic care for all dimensions will increase the effectiveness of optimal treatment. If nurses understand all dimensions of pain, they can create a pain management plan specific to the patient's needs. In this way, more effective, personalized and comprehensive care is provided and significant contributions are made to the patient and the healthcare system. In addition, the patient's autonomy whose spiritual practices are allowed will be supported.