Training pain resource nurses: changes in their knowledge and attitudes.
OBJECTIVE
To determine the changes in knowledge and attitudes of pain resource nurses (PRNs) as a result of an intensive pain management course.


METHODS
Pre- and post-test design.


METHODS
A Veterans Administration hospital in the southeastern United States.


METHODS
18 RNs from multiple units where care is provided for veterans with cancer.


METHODS
The PRNs were tested before and after a 32-hour intensive pain management course.


METHODS
Knowledge about pain management, attitudes toward pain management, and attitudes toward patients in pain.


RESULTS
Significant improvements were found in pain knowledge and attitudes toward patients in pain. Improvements in attitudes toward pain management approached significance.


CONCLUSIONS
The improvements in scores not only supported the effectiveness of the course but also provided additional evidence of the validity of the assessment instruments.


CONCLUSIONS
Courses such as this should be offered in other settings to encourage practicing nurses to provide better care to patients in pain and to serve as role models for their peers.
College of Nursing, University of South Florida, Tampa, USA. smcmilla@hsc.usf.edu
Susan C
SC
McMillan
Mary
M
Tittle
Susan J
SJ
Hagan
Brent J
BJ
Small
D000328:Adult; D001291:Attitude of Health Personnel; D004509:Education, Nursing, Continuing; D005260:Female; D007722:Health Knowledge, Attitudes, Practice; D006787:Hospitals, Veterans; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D009741:Nursing Staff, Hospital; D010146:Pain / Q000451:nursing*