Knoweldge, Attitude and Practice of Nurses related to Pain Assessment Among Post- Operatives Patients in Three Hospitals in KCCA.

Abstract

Post-operative patients in particular experience severe to moderate pain following surgical procedure. Pain management is a vital component when caring for these patients to ensure prompt recovery. It was essential to explore the knowledge, attitude and practices of nurses related to pain assessment among post-operative patients. The significance of the study was to generate data required and to develop strategies to improve nurses‟ knowledge, attitude and practices related to pain assessment among post-operative patients in order to improve patients comfort and quality of life through improved nursing practice. A descriptive, cross-sectional design was employed after approval from IHSU research committee and the three target hospitals. A total population of N=373 nurses and midwives who work on post-operative patients in the three hospitals in Kampala participated in the study. A structured, self-administered questionnaire was used to collect data. Data was analyzed by tables, graphs, pie charts and percentages. The study revealed that majority of respondents, 290 (77.8%) had a high level of knowledge on pain management among post-operative patients; 208 (56%) had positive attitude towards pain management among post-operative patients and 227 (60.9%) reported to use pain assessment tools in the evaluation of pain. Findings highlight the need to improve nurses‟ knowledge, attitude and practices related to pain assessment and management among post-operative patients. Initiatives are recommended such as the need to conduct routine continuous health education, setting up strict guidelines, polices, routine supervision and motivating nurses with up to date information among others.