Knowledge, background, and perceptions : pain and palliative care giving

Abstract

Effective end-of-life care should be reliable, and humane, yet too many dying people suffer unnecessarily (Fields & Cassel, 1997). Palliative care approach should improve the quality of life of patients and their families facing problems associates with a life threatening illness. Traditionally, health care providers receive on the job training, and lack formalized education to meet these needs. The purpose of this study is to examine health care providers’ background, perceptions, and opinions about pain management in palliative care (Fox, 2007). The framework is based on the Total Pain Model concept. The sample will consist of 175 nurses from a local hospice facility. A close-ended survey will measure nurses’ perceptions of preparedness in palliative care. Findings will provide clinical facilities and nurse educators a level of knowledge and skill to improve the quality of palliative care.