Education and training of pain nurse specialists in the United Kingdom

Summary 

Background

The role of PNS in the United Kingdom has evolved piecemeal. This survey updates work done by the British Pain Society to identify roles and education preparation of PNS.

Method

A questionnaire was designed based on the BPS findings and was sent to all nurse members of the BPS. Returned questionnaires were analysed descriptively using SPSS statistical software.

Results

The majority of nurses’ previous experience was in acute care areas (63%). Nurses registered with certificate level training and progressed to diploma or degree later. Forty-one percent of the sample completed a short course in pain management, 12% had a nurse prescribing qualification, 49% were currently studying for or had completed a Masters level degree, and 7% had gained a PhD or were studying at doctoral level. The nurses were clinically autonomous, most working across both acute and chronic pain sub-specialities. Teaching of other staff and students was a universal function (95%) and most nurses took part in or lead research.

Conclusion

There are concerns raised by this survey as to whether nurses can access appropriate education for the diversity of the role that they undertake.

Keywords: Pain, Nursing, Education