The interplay of fear of pain, emotional states, and pain perception in medical and nursing students: A cross-sectional study.

ABSTRACT:

Background

Fear of pain is known to influence pain perception and worsen pain outcomes. However, its relationship with pain threshold remains unclear. Negative emotional states, namely depression, anxiety, and stress, have been found to increase fear of pain. Previous pain experiences, both undergone and observed, can also influence fear of pain. Furthermore, healthcare students' interactions with pain patients may be influenced by fear of pain and pain perception. This study aimed to assess fear of pain among Portuguese medical and nursing students, analyse its association with sex, negative emotional states, previous pain experiences, and curricular year, and evaluate the influence of fear of pain on heat pain threshold.

Methods

A survey based on validated Portuguese quest

SUBMITTER: Romualdo JM 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC11581238 | biostudies-literature | 2024

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature