Functional capacity assessment in patients before and after neurosurgical procedure

Introduction. Nursing preparation of a patient for a neurosurgical procedure complements medical preparation and gives the patient
psychological comfort before and after the surgery. It also determines positive course and outcome of the surgery. Functional capacity
assessment before and after the surgery is a basic element of the nursing diagnosis.

Aim of the study. The aim of the study was functional capacity assessment in patients before and after neurosurgical procedure.

Material and methods. The study included 94 patients of Neurosurgical Ward, Provincial Hospital, Włocławek. All patients underwent one
scheduled operation. They were assessed clinimetrically twice - before and after the operation. To assess functional capacity before and after the surgery Functional Independence Scale (FIM) and Glasgow Outcome Scale (GOS) were used. Visual Analogue Scale (VAS) was
used to assess pain. Patient’s independence after the surgery was assessed using Karnofsky Performance Scale (KPS). The study was approved
by the Bioethical Commission.

Results and conclusions. Most patients’ functional capacity improved after the surgery. Pain significantly influenced patients’ functional
capacity before and after neurosurgical operation, which means that pain limits patients’ independence. After the operation patients were
significantly more independent in daily life activities than before the surgery.

Nursing Topics 2010; 18 (4): 379-383