Patient Perceptions and Satisfaction with Quality of Post-operative Nursing Care: Insights from Surgical Wards in a Tertiary Healthcare Institution, Benin City, Nigeria

Background: Patients’ perceptions and satisfaction regarding nursing care are thought to be the main determinants of the quality of nursing care. Purpose: The study examines patients' perceptions and satisfaction with post-operative nursing care in the surgical wards of a tertiary hospital in Benin city, Edo State, Nigeria. Methods: This study employed a descriptive cross-sectional survey design with 139 participants selected through simple random sampling. Data was collected using a researcher-developed, validated questionnaire. Descriptive statistics were used for data analysis, and hypotheses were tested using multiple logistic regression at a 5% significance level. SPSS version 28 was used for analysis. Results: The study found that most patients 125 (89.9%) had a positive perception of the quality of nursing care, while 122 (87.8%) were satisfied with their post-operative care, and 12.2% were dissatisfied. The key factors contributing to patient satisfaction were the availability of family and support persons (Mean = 3.72) and maintenance of safety and comfort (Mean = 3.68), whereas staff attitude and teamwork (Mean = 3.51) had the least impact. Further analysis showed that females (OR = 4.90, p = 0.479), patients aged 31-40 years (OR = 7.03, p = 0.298), and those with a hospital stay of less than seven days (OR = 4.69, p = 4.174) had higher odds of being satisfied with their care. Similarly, females (OR = 2.31, p = 0.851), patients aged 31-40 years (OR = 4.06, p = 0.476), and those hospitalized for less than seven days (OR = 4.16, p = 0.011) were more likely to have a positive perception of the quality of care received. Conclusion: The study concluded that patients generally had a positive perception of nursing care, with most of them expressing satisfaction. Contributors to satisfaction included family and support and, safety protocols, adequate staffing, and nursing expertise, highlighting their importance in maintaining patient satisfaction. Implication for Nursing: Since safety and comfort were among the highest contributors to patient satisfaction, prioritizing strict safety protocols, pain management, and a supportive recovery environment is crucial. Ensuring that patients feel safe and well-cared for directly impacts their perception of the quality of nursing care and overall satisfaction.