Perceptions about children's pain experience

A Twycross1

  • 1School of Nursing, Postgraduate Division, University of Nottingham, Queen's Medical Centre.

Professional Nurse (London, England)
|March 30, 1999
PubMed

Insights

Nurses must address misconceptions about pediatric pain and understand factors influencing their perceptions. Partnering with parents is crucial for effective pain management in children.

Area of Science:

  • Pediatric Nursing
  • Pain Management
  • Clinical Practice

Background:

  • Children experience preventable pain due to misconceptions about pediatric pain.
  • Nurses' perceptions of pain are influenced by various factors, impacting clinical practice.
  • Effective pain management requires addressing these perceptions and misconceptions.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To highlight the impact of misconceptions on pediatric pain management.
  • To emphasize the need for nurses to reflect on their pain perception.
  • To underscore the importance of parent-nurse partnerships in managing children's pain.

Main Methods:

  • Literature review on nurses' perceptions of pediatric pain.
  • Analysis of factors influencing pain assessment and management.
  • Discussion of strategies for improving pediatric pain care.

Main Results:

  • Misconceptions about pediatric pain persist, leading to undertreatment.
  • Factors influencing nurse perception require critical awareness.
  • Parental involvement is essential for optimal pain relief.

Conclusions:

  • Addressing misconceptions and enhancing nurse awareness are vital for reducing pediatric pain.
  • Collaborative approaches between nurses and parents improve pain management outcomes.
  • Further research into nursing education on pediatric pain is recommended.

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