J Perianesth Nurs: Mapping the Nursing Literature on Postoperative Pain: A Bibliometric Analysis

This research study utilizes bibliometric analysis to provide a high-level overview of half a century of nursing literature focused on postoperative pain. By examining thousands of articles from 1975 to 2024, the authors identify the most influential journals and prolific contributors, noting that research production is largely concentrated within developed nations. The analysis highlights central themes such as surgical pain management, while simultaneously uncovering significant knowledge gaps in areas like patient education, rehabilitation, and long-term quality of life. Ultimately, this work serves as a comprehensive roadmap for the field, pinpointing established trends and identifying critical subjects that require more intensive future investigation.