Nurses' perspectives on neonatal pain management in Ghana

Neonatal pain is often overlooked in healthcare settings, with misconceptions about pain perception in neonates contributing to inadequate management and potential long-term neurodevelopmental consequences.

To explore nurses' perspectives on neonatal pain management in Ghana.

A qualitative, exploratory study was conducted using purposive sampling to select participants from the children's department of a quasi-government (public-private partnership) hospital in Ghana. Ten registered nurses participated in face-to-face interviews. Data were analysed using thematic analysis.

Four main themes emerged: nurses' knowledge and recognition of neonatal pain; neonatal pain management practices; nurses' attitudes towards the management of neonatal pain; and barriers to neonatal pain management. While some nurses recognised behavioural indicators of pain, inconsistent use of validated assessment tools and reluctance to use pharmacological interventions were reported.

Findings highlight the need for targeted training, use of standardised assessment tools and evidence-based protocols. Strengthening nurses' knowledge and skills is vital to improving neonatal pain care in Ghanaian healthcare settings.