Knowledge and Attitude of Personnel, Key Factors in Implementation of Neonatal Pain Management in NICU: A Qualitative Study

Introduction: Pain management is important, especially for neonates who are not able to verbally express their pain. Therefore, stress reduction and pain management are essential components of neonatal care. Aim: The aim of this study was to explore the key factors in implementation of neonatal pain management in Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU). Materials and Methods: A qualitative study using conventional content analysis method was conducted with participation of nurses, physicians and nurse managers working in Alavi Educational Medical Center in Ardabil, Iran during July 2016 to October 2016. Twenty-five nurses took part in focus group discussions, five paediatrician and five nurse managers attended private interviews. Four focus group discussions and ten interviews were performed until data saturation was ensured. Results: Data analysis indicated two effective categories on implementation of infant’s pain management which included “knowledge of the personnel” and “attitude and commitment of the personnel”. The first category consisted of six subcategories “symptoms of pain”, “outcomes of pain”, “pain interventions”, “side-effects of drugs”, “parent’s role”, and “education of personnel.” The second category consisted of three subcategories including “personnel’s conscience”, “personnel’s emotions”, and “personnel’s belief.” Conclusion: According to the main findings of this study, there is a need for empowerment of the personnel about pain management and assessment