Pain management in patient-facing pharmacy settings in Jordan: pharmacists’ knowledge, attitudes, and practices

Abstract
Background: Community pharmacists are well placed to support pain management, yet evidence on their knowledge, attitudes, and practices remains limited in some settings, including Jordan.
Objectives: This study examined pharmacists’ knowledge, attitudes, practices, perceived barriers and training needs related to pain management among pharmacists working in patient-facing pharmacy settings in Jordan.
Methods: A cross-sectional survey was conducted among 408 licensed pharmacists working in community and hospital pharmacies in Jordan. A structured, self-administered questionnaire assessed pain management knowledge, counseling practices, perceived competence, regulatory knowledge, barriers to practice, and training preferences. Descriptive statistics and regression analyses were performed.
Results: Pharmacists demonstrated generally good foundational knowledge and high levels of engagement in patient counseling. However, gaps were identified in pediatric pain perception, analgesic safety, and the integration of nonpharmacological approaches. Fear of dispensing opioids and uncertainty around controlled substance regulations were commonly reported barriers. Counseling frequency was positively associated with both objectively assessed knowledge and self-rated knowledge, with perceived competence showing a stronger association.
Conclusions: Pharmacists in patient-facing pharmacy practice in Jordan play an active role in pain management but face gaps in applied clinical understanding and regulatory confidence. Practice-focused, guideline-based training may help strengthen pharmacists’ contribution to chronic pain care.