Nurses' experiences of caring for children in pain

Aim To describe nurses' experiences when caring for children in pain. Background Earlier studies have shown that nurses are key actors in pain management and that there is a need to focus on the nurses' own experiences of caring for children in pain. Method Semi-structured interviews were conducted with 21 nurses at one paediatric clinic. The data were analysed by means of content analysis. Results The interviews suggested that when a child's pain followed an expected pattern and they complied with treatment, the nurses trusted their knowledge and felt comfortable. On the other hand, in unpredictable situations the nurses felt fearful, powerless, abandoned and distrustful. Conclusion The nurses were comfortable in predictable situations, but if a situation was unpredictable, they felt they had lost control over it. Implications for pain management To reduce feelings of abandonment, work shifts should be organized so that more experienced nurses can work side by side with those who are less experienced. Pain assessment tools and guidelines for pain management should be introduced into the daily work, and systematic reflection should be used for nurses' professional development.