Iranian nurses' perceptions of palliative care for patients with cancer pain.

ABSTRACT

AIM: The purpose of this study was to identify Iranian nurses' perceptions of palliative care for patients with cancer pain. METHODS: The study took a qualitative approach. Semi-structured interviews were held with 15 nurses with Bachelor's degrees working in three teaching hospitals in Iran. Transcripts of the interviews underwent content analysis, and categories were extracted from the material. FINDINGS: The findings came under two main categories management of physical pain and psychological empowerment. Management of physical pain had two subcategories the importance of communication, and pain palliation using drugs. Psychological empowerment also had two subcategories supportive behaviour and distress reduction. CONCLUSION: The sample felt that palliative care for patients with cancer pain must include psychological empowerment, support, and communication as well as physical pain relief.