A cross-sectional study of the role of Canadian nurses with a specialty practice in pain management

Purpose

To explore and describe the role of nurses working in a specialty practice of pain management in Canada.

Methods

A convenience sample of 60 nurses from across Canada with a specialty practice in pain management completed a self-administered questionnaire, which covered a broad range of topics including demographic data, sources of pain education, role responsibilities, positive outcomes and challenges of the role.

Results

Forty-six nurses responded with the majority of respondents from Ontario. Most of nurses worked at a University affiliated teaching hospital, and were baccalaureate or masters prepared, with 28% completing nurse practitioner preparation. The main clinical responsibility of the role involved daily patient visits, with 78% of nurses performing daily patient visits independently. Nurses were also engaged in pain management education for: health care professionals in the hospital setting, students in educational institutions and presentations at conferences. Other role components included administrative, research and leadership responsibilities. Identified benefits of the role include increased accessibility and continuity of care, the ability to act as a liaison between members of the health care team, and increased patient satisfaction. Identified challenges of the role fell into four broad categories including role implementation, clinical tools and support, health care provider education, and administrative support.

Conclusion

This study builds on previous work examining the role of nurses in pain management. Respondents to the survey reported several benefits and challenges to the role of nurses with a specialty practice in pain management.