Nurses' knowledge of current treatment guidelines for cancer pain

The aim of the study was to determine the level of knowledge of nurses bout analgesic therapy of patients with cancer pain and whether there are significant differences in the knowledge of this topic between nurses employed in oncological and non-oncological wards. To determine nurses' knowledge concerning current guidelines in analgesic therapy of patients with cancer pain a questionnaire containing 17 questions was used. In the study participated 74 subjects who were divided into two groups: oncological nurses and non-oncological nurses. Participation in the study was anonymous and voluntary. The level of knowledge of nurses in the field of current guidelines for the treatment of cancer pain can be considered satisfactory, particularly regarding recommendations of the World Health Organization and the knowledge about the side effects of opioids. Differences in knowledge between nurses employed in oncological and non-oncological wards revealed in responses to questions about specialist issues, such as knowledge of adjuvant drugs or non-pharmacological methods of pain treatment. Nurses for the greatest difficulty in the effective treatment of cancer pain considered inadequate pain assessment. Nurses see the need for additional training on current treatment guidelines for cancer pain. Constantly adding to the specialized learning programs principles for evaluation and monitoring of cancer pain, contributes to better anticipate the needs of the suffering patient by nurses.