Abstract
AIM: To determine healthcare workers' pain management-correlated barriers and self-efficacy at teaching hospitals in the city of Ismailia, Egypt. METHODS: A descriptive study was enrolled. 117 healthcare workers (nurses and physicians) were recruited through a purposive sampling technique. An online valid closed-ended online questionnaire was used to collect data between June and December 2023 to assess demographic data, pain management-correlated barriers, and self-efficacy. RESULTS: The findings indicated that medical staff, patients and families, and the healthcare system each perceived distinct barriers to care, with mean scores of 4.88 (SD = 0.56), 5.65 (SD = 1.74), and 3.11 (SD = 0.36), respectively. Furthermore, healthcare workers' self-efficacy was found to be moderate, with a mean score of 12.99 (SD = 4.02) A statistically significant difference (p ≤ 0.05) was found in healthcare workers' self-efficacy based on their workplace and years of experience. CONCLUSION: In the critical care setting, healthcare workers perceived correlated barriers as significant obstacles to successful pain management. High self-efficacy in pain management was reported among healthcare workers in the critical care unit. Effective pain management necessitates specialized training programs that incorporate diverse tools and consider patients' cultural backgrounds. Integrating cultural competence into academic curricula and hospital training programs is vital. Healthcare organizations and policymakers should prioritize addressing the identified barriers to improve healthcare delivery and outcomes. STUDY IMPLICATION: Firstly, enhancing pain management practices is crucial in improving patient care. Identifying and addressing the barriers that healthcare professionals face in pain management. Improving healthcare workers' self-efficacy in pain management for consistent and effective care, reducing unnecessary suffering and bridge the gaps to improve overall patient outcomes.