Nursing technicians Interventions for Chronic Pain Management in Saudi Arabian Hospitals: A Systematic Review of Evidence-Based Practices

Abstract

Chronic pain is a significant healthcare issue that impacts patients' quality of life and poses challenges for healthcare professionals, including nursing technicians. This systematic review aims to evaluate the evidence-based practices and interventions employed by nursing technicians in Saudi Arabian hospitals for the management of chronic pain. A comprehensive literature search was conducted using PubMed, CINAHL, and Scopus databases to identify relevant studies published between 2010 and 2023. The search terms included "nursing technicians," "chronic pain management," "evidence-based practices," and "Saudi Arabia." The methodological quality of the included studies was assessed using the Mixed Methods Appraisal Tool (MMAT). A total of 18 studies met the inclusion criteria, comprising 12 quantitative, 4 qualitative, and 2 mixed-methods studies. The findings suggest that nursing technicians in Saudi Arabia employ a range of pharmacological and non-pharmacological interventions for chronic pain management, including patient education, relaxation techniques, and the use of standardized pain assessment tools. However, several barriers to the implementation of evidence-based practices were identified, such as lack of knowledge, time constraints, and inadequate organizational support. The review highlights the need for further education and training programs for nursing technicians to enhance their knowledge and skills in evidence-based chronic pain management. Additionally, healthcare organizations should provide the necessary resources and support to facilitate the implementation of evidence-based practices in clinical settings.