Yasemin YILMAZ, Nevin TURAN
Acta Medica Ruha - 2026;4(2):87-94
Introduction: Postoperative pain is a common clinical problem that significantly affects recovery outcomes and patient safety. Despite the widespread use of conventional pain assessment tools, limitations such as subjectivity and insufficient applicability in certain patient groups necessitate more objective and comprehensive approaches. Objective : This review aimed to examine current approaches in postoperative pain assessment, evaluate emerging technologies, and highlight their implications for clinical practice and nursing care. Methods: A narrative literature review was conducted using PubMed and Google Scholar databases. Studies focusing on postoperative pain assessment methods, including both conventional tools and emerging technologies, were reviewed and synthesized. Results: Conventional pain assessment tools, such as the Visual Analog Scale and Numeric Rating Scale, provide rapid and practical evaluations but are limited by their reliance on patient self -report. Emerging technologies -including mobile health applications, wearable devices, nociception indices, pupillometry, and artificial intelligence -based systems -offer more objective, continuous, and multidimensional assessment opportunities. These technologies enable real -time monitoring, improved accuracy, and enhanced individualized pain management. However, challenges related to validity, cost -effectiveness, data security, and standardization remain significant barriers to widespread clinical implementation. Conclusion: Emerging technologies have the potential to transform postoperative pain assessment by improving objectivity and supporting personalized care. For effective integration into clinical practice, particularly in nursing care, further high -quality research, standardization, and professional training are required.
