Current Research and Development

Current research

'Knowledge and Challenges in Chronic Pain Management Among Primary Care Nurses: A Mixed-Methods Study'

Chronic pain affects one in five Australians and can significantly impact physical, emotional, and social wellbeing. Primary care nurses play a crucial role in supporting people with chronic pain, particularly in rural and remote areas where specialist services are limited. However, many nurses report feeling underprepared and lack confidence in managing chronic pain, often due to limited education during training and insufficient workplace support. 

This research project will explore how well primary care nurses understand chronic pain and the challenges they face in managing it. The study will include two stages. In Stage 1, an online survey will assess nurses’ knowledge, confidence, and perceived barriers to effective pain care. In Stage 2, semi-structured interviews will provide deeper insights into the practical challenges and support needs experienced in everyday clinical practice. Findings from this project will identify gaps in pain education and inform the development of practical, evidence-based resources to strengthen nursing practice. 

For pain nurses, this research is particularly relevant as it will guide future training, improve confidence in managing complex pain presentations, and ultimately enhance patient care. The project supports the National Strategy for Health Practitioner Pain Management Education and aims to empower nurses to deliver effective, compassionate, and timely pain care to the community.

For more information please contact Dr Emily Wang (emily.wang@unisq.edu.au)

You can access the survey via this link: redcap.unisq.edu.au/surveys/?s=XADC74AK34WKCL4N.

For more information, please see the study flyer below. 

 

Link  Research and Culture

This book is an example of research capacity building by Danish nurse leaders. Within each chapter are step-by-step examples from real world experiences of how clinical nurses have incorporated research into each of their areas. They developed a process of embedding a research culture into their clinical settings.

• It is free to download and use.