The Impact of Nurses' Knowledge of Cancer Pain Management, Empathy, and Communication Skills on Cancer Pain Management Competence

초록

Purpose: This study aimed to investigate nurses' knowledge regarding cancer pain management, empathy, and communication skills, as well as to examine factors influencing their competence regarding cancer pain management. Methods: A total of 166 nurses participated in this study, and all participants had more than three months' clinical experience working in wards and intensive care units where cancer patients were admitted. Data were collected using structured questionnaires and analyzed by an independent t-test, a one-way ANOVA, a Mann-Whitney U test, a Kruskal-Wallis test, a Pearson correlation coefficient, and hierarchical regression analysis using SPSS/WIN 27.0. Results: Significant differences were found in competence for cancer pain management among the participants based on gender (z=-5.36, p<.001) and education level (F=3.87, p=.023). The results of the regression analysis revealed that the factors affecting nurses' competence in cancer pain management included knowledge of cancer pain management (beta=.29, p<.001) and empathy (beta=.20, p=.031). Communication skills (beta=-.03, p=.773) had no significant effect on competence in cancer patient management. The total explanatory power was 31%. Conclusion: Nurses' competence in cancer pain management was significantly influenced by knowledge and empathy. Programs focusing on education regarding cancer pain and empathy enhancement are needed to improve nursing competence for cancer pain management.

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