Neonatal nurses' knowledge and use of non-pharmacological pain management interventions in Saudi Arabia

Abstract

Introduction

Neonatal non-pharmacologic pain management interventions are not adequately used. Neonatal nurses’ knowledge is essential for the effective use of non-pharmacologic pain management interventions.

Aim

To assess neonatal nurses' knowledge and use of non-pharmacologic pain management in Saudi Arabia.

Methods

A Cross-sectional online survey was used. The study recruited 122 neonatal nurses working at Dr. Soliman Fakeeh Hospital. The instrument of this study was a questionnaire that included 7 items measuring the knowledge regarding neonatal pain and 25 items measuring the knowledge regarding non-pharmacological pain management. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and One-way ANOVA to compare the knowledge of neonatal nurses across the neonatal units.

Results

Thirty-two percent of the participants had a high level of knowledge regarding non-pharmacological pain management of neonates, 56% moderate, 10% low, and 2% very low. The most commonly used non-pharmacological pain management interventions were breastfeeding, cuddling, and swaddling. The least commonly used non-pharmacological pain management interventions were oral sucrose, positioning, and facilitated tucking.

Conclusion

Neonatal nurses have adequate knowledge regarding non-pharmacological pain management interventions. The use of sucrose was inadequate. Interventional programs are needed to increase the use of oral sucrose.