Knowledge of morphine use in the management of pain in cancer patients among physicians in a resource-constraint setting

Abstract

Introduction: The use of morphine is viewed as an integral part of pain management in cancer patients. The responsibility for pain treatment lies with physicians. Therefore, this study assessed the knowledge of clinical use of morphine in the management of pain in cancer patients among physicians working in Kebbi State, Nigeria. Material and method: A self-administered questionnaire was distributed to all the 110 participants in attendance at the Continuing Medical Education meeting organized by the Nigerian Medical Association, Kebbi State Branch. Data were analyzed using SPSS version 20. Result: A total of 95 physicians participated, including 12 consultants (12.6%), 38 registrars (40.0%), 35 medical officers (36.8%), and 7 house officers (7.4%). Only 30 respondents (31.6%) had ever received professional training on pain management or analgesic use. Overall, only 10 (10.5%) respondents had good knowledge of pain management in cancer patients and morphine use. Conclusion: Physicians knowledge of pain management in cancer patients and clinical use of morphine is poor. There is a need to improve active professional analgesic education programs.