Advanced practice nurses' role in the treatment of pain.

In 2003, the Canadian Association of Advanced Practice Nurses (CAAPN), with an educational grant from Purdue Pharma Canada, conducted a web-based survey to examine the pain management practices of advanced practice nurses (APNs). The survey objectives were to explore the role of APNs with respect to the treatment of pain, to determine the extent of their influence over treatment outcomes of patients with pain and to ascertain their level of knowledge of controlled-release pain medication. One hundred and sixteen surveys were collected. Results of the survey showed that APNs from a variety of patient care areas are caring for patients seeking pain management. Other results support the current literature that identifies lack of knowledge, education and experience as barriers to pain management practice, influencing the decision to prescribe pain medication. APNs need the tools to develop and implement effective pain management plans for their patients.