The effect of discharge training with the teach-back method on post-discharge challenges in lumbar disc herniation patients: A quasi-experimental study.

Background: Shortened length of hospital stay in patients undergoing lumbar disc herniation surgery forces to undertake interventions that facilitate optimal patient outcomes.

Aim: The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of discharge training given by teach-back method, and counseling based on individual needs and a study-specific training booklet on postoperative pain and challenges experienced by lumbar disc herniation patients.

Methods: This study had a quasi-experimental design and was conducted with 94 patients. Patients were divided into a control group (n = 48) and an intervention group (n = 46) using the blocking method. The pain was assessed at the time of patient admission, at discharge, and at follow-up; postoperative challenges were evaluated at discharge and follow-up.

Results: Most patients experienced pain and challenges such as kinesiophobia, weakness-exhaustion-fatigue, irritability, constipation, and insomnia. The patients in the intervention group had less back and leg pain and challenges.

Conclusions: The benefits of education given by teach-back method, and counseling in reducing the postoperative problems experienced by patients who underwent surgery for lumbar disc herniation were demonstrated in this study. The findings suggest that study-specific training and counseling may be useful for addressing the pain and challenges of patients with lumbar disc herniation.