Nurses' perspectives on neonatal pain management in Ghana.

Abstract

Background: 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.

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

Method: 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.

Findings: 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.

Conclusion: 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.