What Enables Implementation of Pain Management Interventions in Intensive Care Units and Why: A Realist Evaluation to Refine Program Theory.

ABSTRACT:

Aim

To uncover perspectives and refine 12 initial program theories concerning the implementation of pain management interventions in intensive care units. Contexts enabling implementation are delineated, and causal mechanisms within these contexts are described.

Design

A realist evaluation approach was employed.

Methods

Fourteen purposively selected Australian nurses of variant roles were virtually and individually interviewed between July and September 2023. Participants were presented with initial program theory, and their perspectives were collated. Data were analysed using an integrated approach of context (C), mechanism (M), outcome (O) categorisation coding, CMO configurations connecting and pattern matching.

Findings

Pain management interventions work if

SUBMITTER: Hamadeh S 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12535361 | biostudies-literature | 2025 Nov

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature