The effects of a pain management education program on the knowledge level and attitudes of clinical staff.

Two of the most important variables in effective pain management are the knowledge level and attitudes of the clinical staff at the bedside. Gaps in knowledge or uninformed attitudes can prevent optimal pain management. A baseline survey of staff knowledge and attitudes can guide educational and other process improvement efforts. Improvements can then be quantified. A multidisciplinary and multifaceted approach to pain management can improve the knowledge and attitudes of bedside clinicians. Copyright 2002 by the American Society of Pain Management Nurses