Evaluating the effectiveness of a hospital's pain management program

Area of Science:

• Nursing
• Healthcare Management
• Pain Management

Background:

• Growing national emphasis on effective pain management in healthcare facilities.
• Lack of dedicated funding for pain management programs presents a challenge.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess the impact of a multifaceted, low-cost hospital pain management program on nurses' attitudes and behaviors.
• To evaluate the effectiveness of the implemented program over a three-year period.

Main Methods:

• A three-year study involving a hospital pain management program.
• Utilized diverse instructional methods, policies, procedures, and documentation protocols.
• Administered the 39-item Nurses' Knowledge and Attitudes Survey pre- and post-program implementation.

Main Results:

• Demonstrated a statistically significant improvement in nurses' scores between pretest and posttest.
• Indicated a positive shift in nurses' knowledge and attitudes concerning pain management.

Conclusions:

• A low-cost, multifaceted pain management program can effectively enhance nurses' attitudes and behaviors.
• The study provides evidence for the successful implementation of such programs despite funding limitations.
• Highlights the importance of structured interventions in improving pain care delivery.