7.1.5 Assessing the Adequacy of Pain Management Strategies (Children)
The most important consideration in the management of pain in children with
cancer 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
cancer 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.
ASSESSMENT OF PAIN IN THE PATIENT WITH CANCER
Ongoing Pain Assessment
Assessment
Methods for Assessing Pain
Behavioral Observation
Pain Management (Children)
Minority Populations
MONITORING THE QUALITY OF PAIN MANAGEMENT
Index