Abstract:
The current study aimed to assess the knowledge and attitude of registered nurses and also barriers to effective cancer pain management at the oncology directorate of Komfo Anokye Teaching Hospital, Kumasi. The study was descriptive in nature and simple random sampling technique was employed in collecting data from respondents. A sample consisted of 15 registered nurses out of 18 working at the oncology directorate. A standardized questionnaire was used to collect data from respondents.The finding of this study indicates that nurses working at the oncology unit had good knowledge on cancer pain management with a mean score of 82.9%. Low level of knowledge was apparent in response to the pharmacology of opioids administered to cancer patients. In relation to their attitude, the results indicated that they had positive attitude towards cancer patients. They were willing to serve opioids to cancer patients, assess cancer patients’ pain and also served opioids at a regular schedule and not only when the need arises. Fear of addiction and respiratory distress were identified by nurses as their major barrier in effective management of cancer pain. The study recommends that nurses must be educated continuously through educational sessions and workshops which focus on current cancer pain management and pain medication, their time of peak and indication.Advancing the knowledge base of nurses regarding pain management will improve outcomes for patients and will ultimately result in better end of life care.
