Article Text
Abstract
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Background and Aims Pain management plays a crucial role in patient care and should be a fundamental priority in therapeutic interventions. This survey aimed to assess the perspectives of caregivers and patients regarding pain management by evaluating professional practices, obstacles to analgesia, and patient satisfaction.
Methods A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted among healthcare caregivers and patients. Three comparative questionnaires were used to collect data.
Results A total of 109 professionals (32 doctors and 77 nurses) and 36 patients participated in the study. The majority of nurses (79%) and physicians (85%) reported systematic pain assessment, with 32% and 50% respectively using a standardized tool. Doctors demonstrated regular checking of prescription compliance (68%) and treatment adaptation (89%). Caregivers actively sought possible side effects (90%). Barriers to analgesia were identified by 64% of doctors and 42% of nurses, including challenges related to tailored pain medications, limited time, and insufficient training. Inadequate knowledge and apprehensive attitudes towards opioid side effects were noted as limiting factors. Patient responses revealed that 75% reported being assessed and managed for pain, but 60% believed that their reassessment was inadequate. Only 33% expressed complete satisfaction.
Conclusions Our findings indicate inadequate pain management practices, highlighting the need of a dedicated pain control committee as an active catalyst and coordinator of pain treatment. This committee aims to integrate pain management as a routine hospital care practice, employing a structured and collaborative approach. The key objectives include increasing awareness, developing educational programs, and providing clinical training.