The Effect of Pain Management Education on the Intensity of Pain and Quality of Life of Patients with Cancer

Abstract

Context: Pain is the most prevalent symptom experienced by patients with cancer. If left untreated, it can cause complex complications for patients and interfere with their daily life and function, as well as their general quality of life.Objectives: We aimed to assess the effect of pain management education on pain intensity and the quality of life of patients suffering from cancer. Method:In this semi-experimental study, 60 patients with cancer pain were randomly selected and divided into two groups. The case group participated in pain management education program. Pain intensity was evaluated before intervention, and 2, 4, and 8 weeks after intervention. Also, the patient's quality of life was evaluated before intervention, and 4 and 8 weeks after intervention. Results:The case group's mean pain and worst pain indices had a significant decrease four weeks after intervention. Eight weeks after intervention the mean pain, worst pain, and current pain indices were significantly reduced in the case group. However, two weeks after intervention we observed no significant decrease in the pain intensity indices between the two groups.Four weeks after intervention, there was a significant increase in the mean quality of life, emotional function, physical function, and social function scores in the case group p<0.05. Eight weeks after intervention the case group showed a significant increase in all quality of life, as well as all functional scales p<0.05. Conclusion:An organized and consistent pain management education program can effectively reduce pain and enhance the quality of life of patients with cancer.