Assessing patients' satisfaction and intensity of pain as outcomes in the management of cancer-related pain

This study evaluated clinical outcomes in the management of cancer pain in terms of pain severity, pain relief and satisfaction with pain management. It was conducted in a Large oncology hospital, in Athens, Greece and utilized the American Pain Society's Patient Outcome Questionnaire. Information was also collected about the quality of interpersonal relationships with nurses through qualitative comments. A convenience sample of 70 hospitalized adult patients constituted the study population. Despite the high levels of pain observed indicating ineffective treatment, the subjects reported to be "satisfied" or "very satisfied" with the management of their pain and the general care given. Several significant differences and relationships were found between the variables examined. Nurses had developed therapeutic relationships and effective communication with the patients. Further, qualitative comments made by 17 patients provided rich data of rational and humanistic aspects of nursing. Medical and nursing curricula and clinical training in Greece should put more emphasis on pain management. Also, efforts should be channeled so that the management of pain receives a more organised and formal attention in clinical settings. The establishment of pain clinics in Hellenic oncology facilities is a clinical priority. (c) 2007 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.