A Randomized Controlled Study to Enhance Nurses' Pain Management Self-Efficacy and Knowledge through Educational Interventions

Abstract

Purpose: Nurses’ understanding of pain, commitment to education, and positive attitude are vital for providing high-quality pain care. The goal of this study was to find out how a pain management educational program (PMEP) influenced nurses' self-efficacy, knowledge, and attitudes toward pain care. Methods: A randomized experimental study design was utilized. The study was conducted in a governmental hospital in United Arab Emirates, with a total sample of 143 nurses (75 in the interventional group and 68 in the control). The interventional group received six-hours PMEP. Both groups completed questionnaires at baseline (T1), immediately after the program (T2), and at one month (T3). Results: In comparison to T1 (59.31%), the interventional group's Knowledge and Attitude Survey Regarding Pain (KASRP) scores increased significantly to 82.12% and 77.24% at T2 and T3, respectively. However, the control group exhibited no significant changes. From T1 (M = 2.93 ± 1.27) to T2 (M = 4.27 ± 0.68) and T3 (M = 4.21 ± 0.70), the overall scores of Pain Management Self-Efficacy Questionnaire (PMSEQ) rose notably among interventional group. With no significant increase in the PMSEQ scores of control group at T2 and T3. Positive correlations between KASRP and overall PMSEQ scores were observed in the interventional group at T1 and T2 (p < 0.05) but not at T3 (p = 0.120), whereas the control group showed significant correlations at all-time points (p < 0.001). Conclusions: The PMEP significantly enhanced nurses’ knowledge, attitudes, and self-efficacy in pain management. These improvements were sustained for one month post-PMEP, with positive correlations observed over time between KASRP and overall PMSEQ scores in both groups. Incorporating well-structured PMEP into nursing curricula is highly recommended. Further prospective research is recommended to support these findings.