Analysis of contributing factors and nursing interventions for postoperative agitation following general anesthesia in thoracotomy patients

To analyze the factors influencing agitation during emergence from general anesthesia in patients undergoing thoracotomy and to explore corresponding nursing interventions to optimize the postoperative recovery process. This study included 200 patients who underwent thoracotomy with general anesthesia at our hospital between January 12, 2022, and June 1, 2023. After surgery, all patients were closely monitored in the Intensive Care Unit (ICU). Based on their agitation status during emergence from anesthesia, patients were divided into 2 groups: an observation group (87 cases with agitation) and a control group (113 cases without agitation). We performed univariate analysis and multivariate logistic regression to identify risk factors for agitation. Based on these findings, we proposed targeted nursing strategies to address the causes of agitation, prevent complications, and meet patient care needs. Univariate analysis showed significant differences between the observation and control groups regarding age, propofol dosage, duration of surgery, infusion volume, and preoperative cognitive dysfunction (P < .05). Multivariate logistic regression identified 3 key risk factors: age over 60 years, surgery duration over 2 hours, and preoperative cognitive dysfunction. Based on these findings, we developed targeted nursing strategies to reduce the incidence of agitation and promote smooth recovery. Agitation during emergence from general anesthesia in patients undergoing thoracotomy is closely related to factors such as age and surgery duration. Developing personalized nursing plans based on these factors can enhance postoperative monitoring and care, thereby reducing agitation and improving recovery quality.