Effect of Educational Program on Pediatric Nurses' Knowledge and Practice Regarding Selected Nonpharmacological Techniques to Relive Pain in Neonates

Abstract

Background: Newborn infants have an increased sensitivity to pain and are more reactive to pain than older children and adults. Nurses play a crucial role in assessing pain, implementing and evaluating interventions to minimize neonatal pain using available resources especially nonpharmacologic techniques. Aim of the study: to develop and apply an educational program on pediatric nurses regarding selected nonpharmacologic techniques to relieve pain in neonates. Research design: Quasi-experimental research design was utilized in the present study. The study was carried out at Minia University for Obstetric and Pediatric and General Hospitals at neonatal care units. A convenient sample of 41 nurses was included in this study. Educational program for nurses' was done through using the following data collection tools 1) Pre-designed questionnaire sheet, 2) Observation checklists sheet and 3) Educational and training program. Results: It was revealed that there was an obvious increase in the total mean scores of knowledge and practice in post and follow up program phase compared with pretest phase, with a very highly significant difference (p<0.001). Conclusion: The education program had a significant impact on pediatric nurses' knowledge and practices regarding selected nonpharmacologic techniques to relieve pain in neonates. Recommendations: A continuous training and educational program should be planned and offered on regular basis for nurses regarding nonpharmacologic techniques to relieve pain in neonates.