Barriers and facilitators to effective pain management in elderly Arab patients: a nursing perspective through a qualitative study

Abstract Background Effective pain management in elderly patients is crucial for quality of life, yet cultural and institutional factors can significantly impact care delivery, particularly in Arab healthcare settings. Aim To explore the barriers and facilitators to effective pain management in elderly Arab patients from the perspective of nurses. Methods A qualitative descriptive study was conducted with 12 registered nurses from various departments at Tanta University Hospitals, Egypt. Data were collected through semi-structured interviews, observations, and document analysis. Content analysis was used to identify themes and subthemes. Results Five main themes emerged: (1) Cultural Barriers to Pain Expression, including stoicism and religious beliefs; (2) Institutional Barriers to Pain Management, such as resource limitations and time constraints; (3) Facilitators to Effective Pain Management, including family support and nurse adaptability; (4) Interdisciplinary Collaboration, emphasizing teamwork and education; and (5) Emotional and Professional Rewards for nurses. Cultural factors often led to underreporting of pain, while institutional constraints hindered thorough assessments. Nurse adaptability and family support, when present, facilitated better pain management. Conclusion The study reveals complex interplay between cultural, institutional, and professional factors influencing pain management in elderly Arab patients. Findings suggest the need for culturally sensitive pain assessment tools, enhanced nurse education in pain management, and policies promoting family-centered care and interdisciplinary collaboration. Implications Results can inform the development of culturally appropriate pain management strategies and policies in Arab healthcare settings, potentially improving care quality for elderly patients.