TABLE OF CONTENTS
ABSTRACT. ii
TABLE OF CONTENTS. iv
CHAPTER ONE. 1
INTRODUCTION. 1
1.1 Background to the Study. 1
1.2 Statement of the Problem.. 3
1.3 Objectives of the Study. 4
1.4 Research Questions. 5
1.5 Research Hypothesis. 5
1.6 Significance of the Study. 6
1.7 Scope of the Study. 6
1.8 Limitations of the Study. 7
1.9 Organization of the Study. 7
1.10 Definition of Terms. 8
CHAPTER TWO.. 11
REVIEW OF RELATED LITERATURE. 11
2.1 Introduction. 11
2.2 Theoretical Review.. 11
2.2.1 The Theory of Planned Behavior (TPB) 11
2.2.2 Benner's Novice to Expert Theory. 12
2.2.3 Kolb's Experiential Learning Theory. 12
2.2.4 Bandura's Social Cognitive Theory. 12
2.3 Conceptual Review.. 13
2.3.1 Overview.. 13
2.3.2 The Importance of Pain Management 13
2.3.3 Current Knowledge Levels Among Nigerian Nurses. 14
2.3.4 Attitudes Towards Pain Management 14
2.3.5 Educational Gaps and Training Needs. 15
2.3.6 Impact of Resource Availability. 15
2.3.7 Cultural and Socioeconomic Influences. 15
2.3.8 Policy and Systemic Issues. 16
2.4 Empirical Review.. 16
2.5 Summary of Literature Review.. 18
CHAPTER THREE. 19
RESEARCH METHODOLOGY. 19
3.1 Research Design. 19
3.2 Population of the Study. 19
3.3 Sampling Techniques. 20
3.4 Sample Size Determination. 20
3.5 Data Collection Methods. 21
3.6 Instruments for Data Collection. 21
3.7 Validity of Instruments. 22
3.8 Reliability of Instruments. 22
3.9 Ethical Considerations. 22
3.10 Data Analysis Techniques. 23
3.11 Limitations of the Methodology. 24
3.12 Conclusion. 24
CHAPTER FOUR. 25
DATA ANALYSIS AND INTERPRETATION. 25
4.1 Preamble. 25
4.2 Socio-Demographic Characteristics of Respondents. 25
4.3 Analysis of the Respondents’ Views on Research Question one: 31
4.4 Research Hypothesis. 44
4.5 Discussion of Findings. 45
CHAPTER FIVE. 48
SUMMARY OF FINDINGS, CONCLUSION AND RECOMMENDATIONS 48
5.1 Summary of Findings. 48
5.2 Conclusion. 49
5.3 Recommendations. 50
REFERENCES. 52
APPENDICES. 57
APPPENDIX I 57
CHAPTER ONE
INTRODUCTION
1.1 Background to the Study
Pain is the most disturbing and feared symptom that most patients experience during hospital admission. The International Association for the Study of Pain (IASP) defines pain as an unpleasant sensory and emotional experience linked to actual or potential tissue damage (IASP, 2018). Pain is a distressing experience and if left untreated, it reduces the patient's quality of life and significantly affects the patient's physical, emotional and spiritual well-being (Liyew et al., 2020).
Persistent pain is a common health problem among older adults, with a global prevalence between 45% and 80% (Nguyen et al, 2021). About 20% of the adult population in developed countries suffer from chronic pain, especially women and the elderly and even children, while in developing countries the prevalence of chronic pain ranged from 13% to 51% (Sa et al, 2019). Pain management is a critical aspect of care that has a profound impact on patient outcomes and quality of life. In Nigeria, a country with a diverse healthcare system and varying resources, understanding nurses' knowledge and attitudes toward pain management is essential for enhancing patient care. While pain management is acknowledged as a key element of healthcare, a gap still exists in how well Nigerian nurses are equipped to effectively manage pain.
This introduction aims to examine the present viewpoints and expertise of Nigerian nurses regarding pain management, highlighting its importance within the nation's larger healthcare system. Due to limited resources, diverse patient populations, and varying levels of training, Nigerian healthcare professionals encounter significant challenges in managing pain. Research indicates that Nigerian nurses often struggle to diagnose and treat pain, which may be caused by a lack of funding and inadequate training (Olusola et al., 2020).
These knowledge gaps and attitudes can significantly affect patient care and outcomes (Adeyemo et al., 2018). Additionally, cultural and socioeconomic factors in Nigeria affect how pain is perceived and treated, influencing both patients and healthcare professionals (Akinbami & Akinbami, 2021). While awareness of pain management is growing, recent studies indicate that many Nigerian nurses still lack thorough training in this field (Nwachukwu et al., 2019).
According to Okafor et al. (2022), inadequate educational programs and limited clinical exposure contribute to nurses' poor understanding of pain management. Furthermore, attitudes toward pain management vary, with some nurses expressing a lack of confidence in their ability to effectively assess and treat pain (Bello et al., 2021). The variability in knowledge and attitudes highlights the need for targeted educational interventions and policy changes. Investigating Nigerian nurses' knowledge and attitudes toward pain management is critical to developing strategies to improve pain care in the country.
Integrating evidence-based practices into nursing education and clinical settings can address existing gaps and improve patient outcomes (Musa et al., 2023). According to Afolabi et al. (2022), ongoing professional development and support networks are crucial for healthcare providers to stay informed about the latest best practices in pain management. Stakeholders can more effectively address the educational and resource needs of Nigerian nurses by comprehending current attitudes and knowledge regarding pain management.
1.2 Statement of the Problem
The effective management of pain is a fundamental component of nursing care, yet there is growing concern about the proficiency of Nigerian nurses in this critical area. Recent studies reveal significant gaps in the knowledge and attitudes of Nigerian nurses concerning pain management practices (Adeyemo et al., 2018). Many nurses lack comprehensive training in pain assessment and intervention, which can lead to inadequate pain management and negatively impact patient outcomes. This problem is exacerbated by the variability in educational resources and clinical training available to nurses across different regions of Nigeria.
Moreover, the attitudes of Nigerian nurses towards pain management are often influenced by cultural and systemic factors. Research indicates that some nurses may have misconceptions about pain and its treatment, stemming from both cultural beliefs and limited exposure to contemporary pain management techniques (Bello et al., 2021). This variability in attitudes can lead to inconsistencies in pain management practices and affect the overall quality of care provided to patients. Addressing these attitude-related issues is crucial for ensuring that pain management practices are both effective and culturally sensitive.Top of Form
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1.3 Objectives of the Study
The main objective of the study is to examine Examining the Knowledge and Attitudes of Nigerian Nurses towards Pain Management. Specific objectives of the study are:
- To assess the level of knowledge of Nigerian nurses regarding pain management principles and practices.
- To examine the attitudes of Nigerian nurses towards pain management.
- To identify the factors influencing Nigerian nurses' pain management practices.
1.4 Research Questions
To guide the study and achieve the objectives of the study, the following research questions were formulated:
- What is the extent of Nigerian nurses' understanding of pain assessment tools, pain management techniques, and pharmacological interventions?
- What are the prevailing attitudes of Nigerian nurses towards pain, including beliefs about its severity, significance, and the role of healthcare providers in its management?
- What are the factors that influence Nigerian nurses' decision-making regarding pain management, including educational background clinical experience and exposure to pain management training?
1.5 Research Hypothesis
The following research hypothesis was developed and tested for the study:
Ho: There is no significant difference in the knowledge and attitudes towards pain management among Nigerian nurses based on their level of education, years of experience, or regional differences.
1.6 Significance of the Study
The study is important for many reasons. The following are the major stakeholders this paper through its practical and theoretical implications and findings will be of great significance:
Firstly, the paper will benefit major stakeholders and policy makers in the Nursing Science. Sector. The various analysis, findings and discussions outlined in this paper will serve as a guide in enabling major positive changes in the industry and sub-sectors.
Secondly, the paper is also beneficial to the organizations used for the research. Since first hand data was gotten and analysed from the organization, they stand a chance to benefit directly from the findings of the study in respect to their various organizations. These findings will fast track growth and enable productivity in the organisations used as a case study.
Finally, the paper will serve as a guide to other researchers willing to research further into the subject matter. Through the conclusions, limitations and gaps identified in the subject matter, other student and independent researchers can have a well laid foundation to conduct further studies.
1.7 Scope of the Study
The study is delimited to Nursing Science. Delta State University Teaching Hospital. Findings and recommendations from the study reflects the views and opinions of respondents sampled in the area. It may not reflect the entire picture in the population.
1.8 Limitations of the Study
The major limitations of the research study are time, financial constraints and delays from respondents. The researcher had difficulties combining lectures with field work. Financial constraints in form of getting adequate funds and sponsors to print questionnaires, hold Focus group discussions and logistics was recorded. Finally, respondents were a bit reluctant in filling questionnaires and submitting them on time. This delayed the project work a bit.
1.9 Organization of the Study
The study is made up of five (5) Chapters. Chapter one of the study gives a general introduction to the subject matter, background to the problem as well as a detailed problem statement of the research. This chapter also sets the objectives of the paper in motion detailing out the significance and scope of the paper.
Chapter Two of the paper entails the review of related literature with regards to corporate governance and integrated reporting. This chapter outlines the conceptual reviews, theoretical reviews and empirical reviews of the study.
Chapter Three centers on the methodologies applied in the study. A more detailed explanation of the research design, population of the study, sample size and technique, data collection method and analysis is discussed in this chapter.
Chapter Four highlights data analysis and interpretation giving the readers a thorough room for the discussion of the practical and theoretical implications of data analyzed in the study.
Chapter Five outlines the findings, conclusions and recommendations of the study. Based on objectives set out, the researcher concludes the paper by answering all research questions set out in the study.
1.10 Definition of Terms
1. Pain Management
The process of providing medical care that alleviates or mitigates the pain experienced by patients. This can involve a range of strategies including pharmacological treatments, physical therapy, psychological support, and complementary therapies.
2. Knowledge of Pain Management
The extent to which nurses are informed about various methods, techniques, and best practices for assessing and treating pain. This includes understanding the different types of pain, pain assessment tools, and the efficacy of various pain relief interventions.
3. Attitudes towards Pain Management
The beliefs, values, and perceptions that nurses hold regarding the importance and implementation of pain management practices. This encompasses their views on the effectiveness of pain management strategies, their commitment to pain relief, and their willingness to engage in continuing education on the topic.
4. Pharmacological Interventions
Treatments that involve the use of medications to manage pain. This includes opioids, non-opioid analgesics, and adjuvant drugs. Knowledge of pharmacological interventions involves understanding drug mechanisms, dosages, side effects, and interactions.
5. Non-Pharmacological Interventions
Methods used to manage pain that do not involve medications. These can include physical techniques (like massage or heat therapy), cognitive-behavioral strategies (such as relaxation techniques or guided imagery), and alternative therapies (such as acupuncture or aromatherapy).
6. Pain Assessment Tools
Instruments or scales used to evaluate the intensity, quality, and impact of pain on a patient. Common examples include the Numerical Rating Scale (NRS), the Visual Analog Scale (VAS), and the McGill Pain Questionnaire. Knowledge of these tools involves understanding how to use them effectively and interpret their results accurately.
7. Cultural Competency in Pain Management
The ability of nurses to provide effective pain management care that is respectful of and tailored to the cultural and personal beliefs of Nigerian patients. This includes understanding how cultural factors influence pain perception and pain management preferences.
