Management of Cancer-Related Pain: Nurses' Knowledge in Bahrain and Jordan

Abstract

Abstract : Pain is a significant health problem for cancer patients which affect overall quality of life. The purpose of this study was to explore the current knowledge of nurses at Salmaniya Medical Complex (SMC) in Bahrain and Al-Amal Cancer Center (ACC) and Jordan Hospital (JH) in Jordan regarding cancer-related pain management. This descriptive comparative study conducted using a convenient sample (n=170) of nurses working in the oncology settings. The results revealed that nurses in both countries have significant knowledge deficits that could adversely affect the care provided for cancer patients. Nurses had exaggerated fears of the side effects associated with opioid analgesics. Such fear may hinder the provision of medication in appropriate timing and doses to cancer patients. The results in both countries recommended the need to re-evaluate nursing educational training in order to improve their knowledge and skills in this area of care.