Competence and training needs in cancer pain management among nurses: a cross-sectional study

Background Effective cancer pain management remains a critical global healthcare priority, however, significant disparities in nursing competence persist across healthcare systems. Although previous research has identified deficiencies in pain management practices, comprehensive evaluations of nurses’ competence specifically in cancer pain management and their associated training needs are limited. This study contributes to the existing body of knowledge by assessing nurses’ competency levels, identifying key modifiable factors that influence performance, and examining both the current status of training and unmet educational needs. Methods This cross-sectional study included a sample of 202 nurses. Cancer pain management competence was assessed using the Nurses’ Cancer Pain Management Competency Scale. Group comparisons were conducted using t test and analysis of variance. Associated factors were analyzed through Pearson’s correlation analysis and multivariate linear regression. Results Nurses demonstrated a moderate level of competence on the Nurses’ Cancer Pain Management Competency Scale. Multiple linear regression analysis revealed that age, pain or cancer pain training, frequency of cancer pain care, and emotional intelligence were significant predictors of cancer pain management competence, collectively explaining 50.1% of the variance in scores ( F = 23.455, p < 0.01). While 89.6% of nurses reported a need for cancer pain management training, only 47.53% have received such training in the past 3 months. E-learning was the most preferred educational format, followed by lectures, hands-on practical training, and simulation-based learning. Conclusion This study highlights that nurses’ competence in cancer pain management is significantly influenced by age, pain or cancer pain training, frequency of cancer pain care, and emotional intelligence. Despite a high demand for education, recent participation in training remains suboptimal. The preference for e-learning indicates a growing inclination toward flexible and accessible training approaches. Addressing these gaps in competence and training is crucial for improving the quality of cancer pain management in clinical practice.