Breakthrough cancer pain management: mixed-methods study of health care professionals

Knowledge gaps in defining, diagnosing, educating health practitioners and treatment options hinder breakthrough cancer pain (BtCP) management. A systematic review revealed a lack of clarity on health professional derived definitions, management strategies and professional development for BtCP. The current study aimed to explore the perspectives of multidisciplinary health professionals by seeking to understand how they define, identify, treat and manage BtCP, barriers to management and professional development requirements.

A mixed-methods approach involving a two-phase data collection process was employed. Health professionals initially completed an online survey capturing perspectives on BtCP, management strategies, barriers and education/professional development requirements. Survey participants expressing interest were then invited to complete a semistructured interview for an in-depth exploration of their perspectives. Descriptive statistics and frequencies summarised online survey data. Open-ended responses were themed, and categories created. Semistructured interview transcripts were inductively analysed for recurring or divergent themes.

Fifty-four participants completed the online survey and 11 of them participated in an interview. Findings confirmed the importance of patient communication and education in managing BtCP, emphasising the need for adequate resources and training. Interdisciplinary relationships were highlighted as important and contributing to effective BtCP management, supporting professional growth and confidence in prescribing pain management medication.

The study filled research gaps by involving diverse health professionals to explore BtCP identification, treatment, barriers and professional development need. Future research should emphasise interdisciplinary collaboration, invest in targeted resources, training and culturally appropriate communication to address barriers in patient interaction.