Improving Functional Status in African Americans With Cancer Pain: A Randomized Clinical Trial

Objectives: To determine the efficacy of the Power Over Pain–Coaching (POP-C) intervention to improve functional status among African American outpatients with cancer pain.

Sample & Setting: 310 African American patients were recruited from an urban comprehensive cancer center. The study took place in the patients’ homes.

Methods & Variables: A two-group randomized design with repeated measures was used. Data were analyzed with linear mixed effects regression analysis and structural equation change score models. Variables were pain, pain-related distress, functional status, perceived control over pain, and the following antecedents to control: medication management, pain advocacy, and living with pain.

Results: Functional status was improved in POP-C participants relative to control group participants (p < 0.05). Distress also was differentially decreased (p < 0.05). Pain intensity ratings decreased significantly in all patients (p < 0.05). The largest intervention effects were observed in the living with pain component. 

Implications for Nursing: Perceived control over pain was strongly related to functional status and is amenable to interventions using the POP-C intervention components described in this article.