Exploring health professionals' knowledge of cancer-related pain: a scoping review.

BACKGROUND: Cancer-related pain is a complex multidimensional experience that affects all aspects of life. To support those impacted by cancer-related pain it is essential that health professionals have adequate knowledge in its assessment and management. AIMS: To explore the knowledge of health professionals regarding cancer-related pain. METHODS: A scoping review methodology was used to systematically search the literature published between 2010 and 2020. Databases CINAHL, Medline and PsycINFO were searched using terms 'cancer pain', 'healthcare professional', 'knowledge', 'attitudes' and 'barriers'. FINDINGS: The search identified 38 articles. They focused on nursing knowledge with minimal involvement of allied health professionals. Knowledge levels were variable with the majority demonstrating poor knowledge. Common knowledge gaps included around fear of addiction, principles of cancer-related pain assessment and management, and interventional techniques. CONCLUSION: Knowledge of cancer-related pain is variable with several knowledge gaps. More work is needed to ensure health professionals have adequate knowledge regarding the complexity of cancer-related pain.

Exploring the prevalence, characteristics and nursing assessment of neuropathic pain.

Neuropathic pain results from damage to the nerves. It affects many in the general population, but its prevalence is higher in certain groups, for example those who have undergone certain procedures or systemic anti-cancer therapy and people with conditions such as diabetes mellitus, viral infections or central nervous system disorders. Regardless of the cause, neuropathic pain can have significant adverse effects on people's quality of life, so nurses need to be able to conduct a holistic pain assessment that incorporates physical, emotional, social and spiritual aspects. This article explores the prevalence, characteristics and nursing assessment of neuropathic pain with the aim of improving nurses' awareness, practice and care of people affected by this type of pain.

Care and management of patients receiving epidural analgesia.

Epidural analgesia continues to have an important role in the management of acute pain in post-operative settings. Although its use in clinical practice has declined, it continues to demonstrate superior analgesia effect compared with parenteral opioids. However, despite these benefits, epidural analgesia requires additional monitoring to ensure the timely identification of significant complications, such as haematoma and abscess. This article details the nursing care and management of adults receiving epidural analgesia in post-operative settings. It also outlines the main complications that may occur and how these can be managed.