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Assessing the Adequacy of Pain Management Strategies in Children
The most important consideration in the management of pain in children is the provision of a child-centered environment and attitude. Health care professionals should understand and consider developmental issues and problems that affect the integrity and structure of the family. Child-centered care provides the necessary items and services to support the child and the family emotionally, socially, and spiritually throughout the treatment process. In such an environment, pain and suffering are continually assessed, and appropriate supportive measures are introduced. Otherwise, the treatment of pain with analgesics and other agents will often be inadequate.
Optimal assessment and treatment require a knowledge of children's development, behavior, and physiology. Because children are less likely than adults to talk about pain, the responsibility to inquire about pain rests with the health care professional (Table 22). Some children will have pain that is particularly difficult to manage. In these situations, consultation with specialists in children's pain is recommended.
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