Effect of a Pain Management Program on Critical Care Nurses' Performance at One of the Cancer Treatment Hospitals

Abstract

Background: Pain management is one of the most important responsibilities and is an integral part of role of the Intensive Care Unit nurses, especially those who are caring for cancer patients. Therefore, updating nurses' knowledge and practices are essential for provide high-quality nursing care. Aim of the study: to investigate the effect of a pain management program on Critical Care nurses' performance at one of the cancer treatment hospitals in Egypt. Research Design: A quasi-experimental pretest-posttest research design was utilized in this study. Research hypothesis: two research hypotheses were formulated. Setting: This study was carried out at the adult surgical and medical ICUs affiliated to one of the cancer treatment hospitals –Egypt. Sample: A sample of convenience consisting of 34 critical care nurses was included. Tools of data collection: three tools were utilized to collect data in the current study: Critical Care Nurses' Demographic Data Sheet;   Pre / Post Critical Care Nursing Knowledge Assessment Questionnaire about Pain Management and Pre / Post Critical Care Nurses' Practice Observational Checklist Regarding Pain Management (Pre-test and Post-test). Result: the great majority (97.1%) of the study sample had unsatisfactory knowledge level in first assessment (pre-test) before attending pain program. However all (100%) of the study sample had satisfactory knowledge level immediately after implementing of pain program and after one month. Also, all (100%) of the study sample had unsatisfactory practice level before implementing pain program. However approximately two third (62%) had satisfactory practice level immediately after implementing pain program and after one month. The both research hypotheses were supported. Conclusion: critical care nurses in the critical study showed significant improvement in their knowledge and practices regarding pain management cancer patients which could reflect the importance and the effect of the educational program. Recommendations: enrichment of critical care cancer knowledge and practices regarding pain management cancer patients; up to date pain assessment and management to be periodically required for great benefits; as well, replication of this study on a larger probability sample is highly recommended.