ASSOCIATION BETWEEN PERCEIVED NURSE EMPATHY AND PATIENT SATISFACTION IN SURGICAL WARDS OF TERTIARY CARE HOSPITAL

Abstract

Background:
Empathy is a fundamental component of nursing care that enhances therapeutic relationships and improves patient-centered outcomes. In surgical wards, where patients often experience anxiety, pain, and uncertainty, empathetic nursing care plays a vital role in promoting comfort, trust, and satisfaction. Despite its importance, limited local evidence exists regarding the relationship between perceived nurse empathy and patient satisfaction in tertiary care settings in Pakistan.

Aim:
To determine the association between perceived nurse empathy and patient satisfaction among patients admitted to surgical wards of a tertiary care hospital in Lahore.

Methods:
A quantitative analytical cross-sectional study was conducted at Lahore General Hospital, Lahore. A sample of 82 adult surgical patients was calculated using the G*Power calculator with 95% confidence level, 80% statistical power, and medium effect size. Convenience sampling was used to recruit participants who had been admitted for at least 48 hours. Data were collected using a structured questionnaire comprising socio-demographic information, a validated nurse empathy scale, and a standardized patient satisfaction scale. Data were analyzed using SPSS version 26. Descriptive statistics summarized participant characteristics, while Pearson correlation and regression analysis assessed the association between perceived empathy and patient satisfaction.

Results:
The findings demonstrated moderate to high levels of perceived nurse empathy and patient satisfaction. A statistically significant positive correlation (r = 0.62, p < 0.001) was found between perceived nurse empathy and patient satisfaction. Higher empathy scores were associated with increased satisfaction levels.

Conclusion:
Perceived nurse empathy significantly influences patient satisfaction in surgical wards. Strengthening empathetic communication and patient-centered care practices may enhance overall quality of surgical nursing services.