Nurses' Attitudes and Practices in the Management of Postoperative Patients: A Study Conducted at the Wangata General Reference Hospital, Mbandaka, Democratic Republic of Congo
Abstract
Background
The immediate postoperative phase is critical for patient survival. At the Wangata General Reference Hospital in Mbandaka, Democratic Republic of Congo, patient safety faces significant material and human resource challenges. Understanding how nurses perceive their role and execute postoperative care is essential for identifying clinical and organizational barriers specific to this hospital.
Objective
This study aimed to evaluate the behaviors and clinical practices of nurses during the monitoring of surgical patients in the postoperative period at the Wangata General Reference Hospital.
Methods
A quantitative, descriptive, cross-sectional study was conducted. A standardized questionnaire was completed by 100 nurses from surgical units, including operating rooms, recovery rooms, and surgical wards. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, bivariate analysis (chi-square tests), and multivariate logistic regression to isolate influencing factors. The significance threshold was set at p < 0.05.
Results
The sample comprised 55% women and 55% of professionals with less than five years of experience. Priority at admission to the recovery room focused on consciousness verification (50%), while pain management received only 15% priority. Handwashing was neglected by 30% of nurses. Multivariate analysis revealed that higher education level promoted the use of hourly monitoring charts (ORa = 2.3; 95% CI: 1.1-4.8; p = 0.03) and pain management prioritization (ORa = 3.1; 95% CI: 1.2-8.0; p = 0.02). Early mobilization depended strictly on factual knowledge of evidence-based recommendations (ORa = 5.1; 95% CI: 2.3-11.3; p < 0.001). Hand hygiene was stimulated by visual reminders (ORa = 4.5; 95% CI: 1.8-11.2; p = 0.001) but compromised by perceived care overload (ORa = 0.4; 95% CI: 0.2-0.8; p = 0.02). Urinary function monitoring before shift change was significantly associated with years of experience (χ² = 8.37; p = 0.038).
Conclusion
Observed technical gaps stem from structural weaknesses and a lack of advanced qualifications. Unupdated empirical experience fosters obsolete routines. Postoperative safety demands a synergy between university-level skills and managerial support. Ensuring the safety of surgical patients in Mbandaka requires profound organizational reforms, the installation of visual reminders, and increased access to continuing education.
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How to cite
Samolia Kale, J. L. (2026). Nurses' Attitudes and Practices in the Management of Postoperative Patients: A Study Conducted at the Wangata General Reference Hospital, Mbandaka, Democratic Republic of Congo. SDF Journal of Public Health. https://sfoundation.one/articles/sdf-2026-0052-nurses-attitudes-and-practices-in-the-management-of-postoperative-pati