Effect of educational program on pediatric nurses' knowledge and practice regarding selected nonpharmacological techniques to relive pain in neonates

BackgroundNewborn 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 studyto develop and apply an educational program on pediatric nurses regarding selected nonpharmacologic techniques to relieve pain in neonates.Research designA pre/post 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.ResultsIt 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).ConclusionThe education program had a significant impact on pediatric nurses' knowledge and practices regarding selected nonpharmacologic techniques to relieve pain in neonates.RecommendationsA continuous training and educational program should be planned and offered on regular basis for nurses regarding nonpharmacologic techniques to relieve pain in neonates.