Nursing Care for a Post‑Laparotomy Ovarian Cyst Case: Pain Management, Infection Prevention, and Nutritional Support

Abstract

Ovarian cysts, particularly when managed via laparotomy, pose multifaceted challenges including acute pain, risk of infection, and nutritional deficits, which can significantly affect recovery and postoperative outcomes. This case report describes comprehensive nursing care for a 48‑year‑old female patient at RSUDZA Banda Aceh following laparotomy for cystic ovarian neoplasm. Using the nursing process, diagnoses were acute pain, risk of infection, and risk of nutritional deficit. Interventions included non‑pharmacological pain relief (e.g., Benson relaxation), strict aseptic wound care, early mobilization, tailored nutritional support, and patient education. Outcomes after five days showed decreased pain scores, no signs of wound infection, improved appetite and nutritional intake. Through this case, we illustrate the value of integrating evidence‑based practices from the literature – including immunonutrition, early feeding, infection control protocols, and multimodal pain management – to enhance recovery. Recommendations include implementing a protocol combining these elements for similar cases to improve patient outcomes.