Patients, caregivers and nurses' attitudes toward patients' participation in knee and hip joint replacement pain management: a Q-methodology study.

Background

Patients are often not actively involved in their acute pain management.

Objectives

To understand the attitudes of patients, family caregivers and nurses to patient participation in pain management after their knee or hip joint replacement.

Design

Q-methodological design.

Methods

45 participants were recruited, included 15 patients, 15 caregivers and 15 nurses. Forty-nine statements were rank-ordered in a Q-sort table.

Results

Four factors which explained 65% of the variance were identified from factor analysis. They are named "Endurers", "Supporters", "Worriers" ,and "Wabblers".

Conclusion

Each group have a significant knowledge deficit in pain management. Patients and caregivers were more likely to have a passive attitude and false cognition towards pain and analgesic drugs. Nurses often play a role as a supporter, however, it is hard for them to understand their important role in facilitating patient involvement in their pain management.