Investigating Public Pharmacists' Awareness, Perspectives, and Functions in Pediatric Palliative Management: Facilitators and Obstacles

Pain is a frequent issue, and the use of painkillers is widespread. Public Pharmacists (PP) serve as the main interfaces for patients and may significantly influence the direction of reasonable medication or unconventional pain treatment approaches. Nonetheless, there are no definitive academic programs or standardized norms to facilitate this position, and the awareness of this prospective job remains limited. This research investigated PP's awareness, perspectives, and functions in Pediatric Palliative Management (PPM) at Community-based Pharmacies (CbP) and Pharmaceutical Storefronts (PSs). An exploratory study was performed using SPSS version 25 to collect, analyze, and evaluate the information. The study further examined possible facilitators and obstacles and the application of current regulations. Of the 125 PPs solicited for the research, 100 consented to participate and submitted the survey responses. When evaluating alternative options, 37.2% concur that the exclusive use of analgesics and adjuvant medicines may successfully manage chronic pain, whereas a notable minority (28.1%) either dissent or maintain a neutral stance. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is extensively supported as an early intervention, with 52.8% of individuals in agreement and 17.2% in strong agreement, underscoring its acknowledgment as a non-pharmacological approach for chronic pain management. Ultimately, a significant majority (62.1%) of participants agree that the selection of painkillers should be predicated on pain severity, with 21.3% expressing a strong endorsement of this methodology.