Knowledge and attitudes of pediatric clinicians regarding pediatric pain management

Background The professional knowledge and personal attitudes of pediatric clinicians regarding pediatric pain are the most important factors impacting pediatric pain relief care. Few studies have investigated the knowledge and attitudes regarding pediatric pain management of clinicians in Taiwan. Purpose Research purposes were to evaluate the knowledge and attitudes of pediatric clinicians regarding pain management and to describe the barriers of applying pain management across pediatric and neonatal settings. Design and Methods A cross-sectional descriptive comparative design was used. Pediatric clinicians from two medical centers and three general hospitals in Taiwan were recruited to complete a questionnaire. Results A total of 264 clinicians participated. On 33 questions measuring knowledge of pain management, the average correct response rate was 23.67. A significantly positive relationship was identified between clinicians' knowledge and prior training experience. Professional degree attainment significantly impacted clinicians' attitudes about pediatric pain management. Clinicians at pediatric wards showed more positive attitudes than did clinicians at either pediatric intensive care units or neonatal intensive care units. Five barriers to pediatric pain management were found. Conclusion The findings of this study suggest that pediatric clinicians in Taiwan need further education regarding pediatric pain management. This study will also helpful in implementing multidisciplinary pediatric pain management programs to improve the quality of pediatric practice in pediatric care settings of hospitals.