• J Schön, K Gerlach, and M Hüppe.
• Universität zu Lübeck, Klinik für Anästhesiologie, Ratzeburger Allee 160, 23538 , Lübeck, Deutschland.
• Schmerz. 2007 Apr 1;21(2):146-53.

ObjectiveThe aim of the study is to show whether negative coping style has an impact on post-operative pain reporting and pain-related behaviour.MethodsAfter informed consent 48 gynaecological patients were enrolled in the study. Negative coping style was assessed by using the stress coping questionnaire SVF-78 (Janke and Erdmann). Patients were dichotomised by scores of the negative coping style. Pain reporting concerned pain intensity and pain quality. Pain-related behaviour was assessed by patient-controlled analgesia (PCA). Pain intensity and pain quality were assessed prior to surgery and 24 h after surgery. Patient-controlled analgesia was recorded up to 24 h after surgery. Trait anxiety (STAI-X2) was used as a control variable.ResultsPatients with high scores in negative coping style report increased levels of pain in both affective and sensory pain perception. At the same time patient-controlled analgesia is used less frequently by this group. This result remains significant considering trait anxiety as a covariate.ConclusionsHigh negative coping style may cause a discrepancy between pain reporting and pain-related behaviour. This should be taken into account in the perioperative care of patients.

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