Knowledge and Attitudes of Critical Care Nurses Regarding Pain Management in Saudi Arabia

BACKGROUND: Approximately five million patients on yearly basis are being admitted to the critical care unit around the world. Around (77%) of these patients suffer from pain during their stay in critical care units. Undertreated pain aggravates anxiety, sleep deprivation, agitation, delirium, and depression that often lead to a chronic condition. There are various barriers toward recognition and proper management of pain such as sedation, the presence of endotracheal tube, healthcare providers lack of knowledge etc. Therefore, it becomes essential for the nurses to have the required knowledge related to pain, valid pain assessment tools, and proper management. OBJECTIVE: The present study aimed at investigating the critical care nurses’ knowledge and attitude towards pain management at a university hospital in Saudi Arabia. METHODS: A descriptive cross-sectional design of 112 nurses working at intensive care units and emergency department. The data collected using a knowledge and attitude regarding pain (KASRP) survey. RESULTS: Majority of nurses had inadequate knowledge regarding pain management. Among 112 nurses, only 8 nurses (7.1%) were with good level of knowledge compared by 54 nurses (48.2%) with poor level of knowledge. Results showed significant association between knowledge and attitude and the current position in the ICU (p=0.043). CONCLUSION: It is mandatory to monitor nurses’ pain management knowledge continuously. As well as to emphasis significance of an educational programs that serve nursing practice.