The Role of Nurse-Led Initiatives in Managing Chronic Pain in Elderly Patients at Saidu Teaching Hospital Swat, Pakistan

Background: Chronic pain, lasting three or more months, affects the physical and emotional well-being of elderly patients, particularly those aged 60 and above. These patients face unique challenges due to polypharmacy, cognitive issues, and underreporting of pain. Nurse-led pain management programs can address these challenges by employing holistic, patient-centered approaches. Aim: To assess the effectiveness of nurse-led interventions in managing chronic pain among elderly patients. Methodology: This quantitative, cross-sectional study included 200 participants aged 60 and above with chronic pain, treated at Saidu Teaching Hospital, Pakistan. Data were collected using structured questionnaires and the numeric pain rating scale (NPRS) to assess pain severity before and after interventions. Interventions included pain education, non-pharmacological techniques, and pharmacological management. Data were analyzed using statistical package for the social sciences (SPSS) Version 26, employing descriptive and inferential statistics. Results: The study revealed a significant reduction in pain severity post-intervention, with mild pain increasing from 10% to 40% and severe pain decreasing from 40% to 15%. Pain education was the most effective intervention (41%), followed by non-pharmacological techniques (32%) and pharmacological management (27%). Significant associations were found between demographic variables, intervention types, and pain outcomes. Conclusion: Nurse-led pain management programs effectively reduce pain severity and enhance patient satisfaction and quality of life. Gender, age, and educational background significantly influence pain management outcomes, highlighting the need for tailored interventions.