Nurses' knowledge and attitudes towards non-pharmacological interventions for managing pain in the Intensive care unit: an extend literature review.

Abstract

Background: Effective pain management in critical care units is crucial for patient outcomes and satisfaction. Although pharmacological approaches are commonly used, they can have adverse effects. Non-pharmacological interventions (NPIs) offer alternative methods for pain management and reduce reliance on medications.

Aim: This literature review aimed to explore nurses’ knowledge of and attitudes towards NPIs for pain management in intensive care units (ICUs). It also sought to identify factors hindering nurses from using NPIs in the ICU.

Search strategy: A total of 20 keywords were used, and six databases were consulted: CINAHL, MEDLINE, PsycINFO, Embase, Scopus and Web of Science. They were selected for their relevance to the research topic. The search strategy was verified by a subject librarian and a supervisor, and a systematic approach was followed. Additionally, the reference lists of relevant articles were hand-searched. The quality of the included studies was assessed using appropriate tools.

Results: The review included six studies: two qualitative studies, three cross-sectional studies and one mixed-methods study. These studies examined nurses’ knowledge and attitudes concerning NPIs for pain management in the ICU. Overall, the results indicated that nurse training, education and policy support are crucial for enhancing the use of NPIs and improving nurse knowledge.

Conclusions: Nurses’ knowledge of NPIs in the ICU was low to moderate, with a positive attitude towards their use. This lack of understanding may hinder the development of educational programmes for nurses, which could increase the use of NPIs. Barriers affecting nurses’ knowledge and attitudes concerning NPIs include professional barriers, ICU setting barriers and hospital policy barriers. Therefore, healthcare systems should establish a supportive environment, equip nurses with knowledge and skills, and encourage patient and family engagement in treatment plans.