Knowledge and Practice of Nurses on Pediatric Pain Management in Bangladesh

Among nurses due to inadequate pain management knowledge and practice skills, children's pain is often under treated. This study aimed to examine the level of knowledge and practice on pediatric pain management among nurses in Bangladesh. This was a descriptive survey study involving total 150 clinical pediatric nurses from two Medical College Hospital and a University hospital in Bangladesh. The data collection tool consisted of demographic data form, 32-items nurses' knowledge. There were 32 true and false questions related to nurses' knowledge on pediatric pain management in Bangladesh. The response formats to each item for correct answer was 1 and incorrect answer 0. The total scores were categorized into three levels including low (0-20), moderate (21-23) and high (24 and above). The data collection tool consisted of demographic data form, 19-item practice related questionnaire on pediatric pain management. Nurses' practice on pediatric pain management contained 19 items with 5-points Likert's scale ranging from 1=Never practice to 5=constantly practice. For each item, a score of 5 was accorded for constantly and 1 for never. The score ranged from 19-95. The total scores were categorized into three levels including low (19-38), moderate (39-76) and high (77-95). The results demonstrated that most of the nurses' knowledge score on pediatric pain management was at moderate level (mean=21.50, SD=2.35). Nurses' practice on pediatric pain management was also at moderate level (mean=75.45, SD=8.24). The relationship between nurses' knowledge and practice was not significant. In addition, nurses' knowledge and practice with demographic variables; there was significant relationship between nurse's knowledge and existence of pain management protocol, nurses' practice and their current position in unit and with reading nursing journal. This study showed moderate level of knowledge and practice indicating that they need to be enhanced the knowledge and practice skills in pediatric pain management.