Pain Management

Many things affect your child's experience of pain. If you are worried or in doubt about your child's pain, talk to your local doctor, or if you are in hospital, a nurse or doctor. If you are unsure about whether or not to give any medication for your child's pain, it is best to get advice from your doctor or pharmacist. For information about a specific medication, see Medicines.

A child leaning forward and crying in pain

© Enciktep | Dreamstime.com - Small Child Is Crying Hard On White Background. Photo

Children's Pain - The Facts

Parents are often the best judges of their child's pain. Listen to what they tell you and watch what they do. If worried or in doubt about your child's pain, talk to your local doctor or if you are in hospital, a nurse or doctor.

Painful Procedures & Operations - How Can Parents Help?

As a parent or caregiver, you know your child best. You can help staff to help your child cope with the procedure or surgery.

Chronic Or Persistent Pain

The presence of pain can affect all aspects of a child or young person's life and have a big impact on their family and whānau.

Patient Controlled Analgesia (PCA)

PCA stands for patient controlled analgesia. A PCA pump is a device that allows your child to give themselves a pre-set amount of pain medicine (usually morphine), as needed, by pressing a hand-held button.

Morphine Infusion

A morphine infusion is a pain relieving medicine your child receives continuously through a pump. Tamariki (children) usually have it after an operation. They can also have it for other reasons.

Epidural Analgesia

An epidural is a very effective method of pain control used both during and after major surgery to the chest, tummy and legs.

Nitrous Oxide

Nitrous oxide is also known as happy or laughing gas. It is a gas that can be used to help tamariki (children) with small scans or procedures that might be stressful or painful.

Pain Management Books, Apps & Videos

Books About Pain Management
Relaxation & Pain Management Apps
Understanding Pain Video