Persisting misconceptions of Belgian physicians and nurses about cancer pain treatment

In Belgium palliative hospices, palliative support teams in hospitals and palliative home care are well-developed. The author gave a lecture about pain treatment in palliative care and inquired after the knowledge and attitudes of 28 nurses and 45 physicians. A questionnaire containing questions about morphine and cancer pain treatment was completed by the attendees before and after the session. In the initial questionnaire the care-providers' attitudes towards palliative care and symptom control were included also. The Wilcoxon test revealed a significant difference in knowledge between the physicians and nurses before the session (p = 0.007). Afterwards knowledge had improved in both groups (p = 0.007) but a difference still remained (p = 0.007). This study reveals that continued education is mandatory. An oral presentation seems not ideal; interactive training with practical exercises might be more appropriate.