Introduction: Breakthrough pain is prevalent in cancer patients (40-80%), is often underdiagnosed and undertreated, have a negative impact on quality of life and is associated with reduced functional capacity. Successful management of breakthrough cancer pain depends on adequate pain assessment. Objectives: To evaluate the knowledge of Portuguese physicians and nurses regarding breakthrough cancer pain and to identify professional factors influencing this knowledge. Methodology: Observational, analytical and cross-sectional study using a quantitative approach, with a convenience sample of 429 participants, including 242 nurses and 187 physicians. An online questionnaire was developed specifically for the study, composed of questions about breakthrough cancer pain, divided into dimensions: Definition, Epidemiology, Characterization and Classification, Assessment, Treatment and Monitoring. A pre-test was conducted to assess the structure and comprehension of the questionnaire. Univariate analysis using descriptive statistics, and an inferential analysis were performed to examine associations and correlations between variables. Results: A total of 69.4% of correct responses were obtained. The dimensions with the highest scores in the questionnaire were assessment (82.45%), characterization and classification (72.22%), followed by surveillance (71.56%) and epidemiology (68.65%). In contrast, there was a lower percentage of correct answers for treatment (49.19%) and definition (30.8%). Physicians showed better knowledge than nurses, and previous training in palliative care, especially intermediate and advanced training, and competence in palliative care were associated with higher knowledge of breakthrough cancer pain. Professionals working in an emergency, inpatient, outpatient and/or day hospital setting had better results. There was also an association between a higher level of knowledge and a shorter period of professional practice. Conclusions: The study shows a good general level of knowledge among the participating physicians and nurses. However, there are gaps, particularly in the definition and management of breakthrough cancer pain. Institutional pre-graduate investment in curriculum topics that address cancer pain is suggested, as well as generalized and facilitated access to post-graduate continuing education focused on breakthrough cancer pain.
Date of Award | 11 Nov 2024 |
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Original language | Portuguese |
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Awarding Institution | - Universidade Católica Portuguesa
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Supervisor | Manuel Luís Capelas (Supervisor) |
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- Breakthrough cancer pain
- Palliative care
- Knowledge
- Physicians
- Nurses
- Mestrado em Cuidados Paliativos
Dor irruptiva em contexto de doença oncológica: avaliação do conhecimento de médicos e enfermeiros portugueses
Bastos, P. M. R. Q. C. (Student). 11 Nov 2024
Student thesis: Master's Thesis