There are few things more tragic and overwhelming than seeing your child in pain. Pediatric pain management is a crucial part of our services, and we give children in hospice the same considerations as our other hospice patients: that quality of life and making precious memories are key priorities.

Your child is a precious individual, and we recognize that children feel and process pain differently from adults. A part of this rests in their varied emotional experiences. Emotional experiences often define how you process and experience pain and discomfort.

At 3HC, we understand that, as a parent, you are going through what is likely the most difficult and devastating moment of your life. We want to assure you that we treat all our pediatric patients as individuals and not as “little adults.” We understand that pediatric pain management is much more complicated. Our pediatric hospice services want to give your child as much joy as possible. 

Pediatric Pain Management: Providing Comfort Care for Physical and Psychological Needs

We understand that your child has more than physical needs. We tend to their emotional and psychological needs as well. We also utilize non-pharmacological strategies when appropriate to manage pain in children as young as newborns.

Just as important, we know you need to be informed of every pediatric pain management strategy we are using, and good communication is essential. We’ll always discuss our healthcare strategies with you, which often alleviates a lot of anxiety.

We do this through an interdisciplinary team that utilizes both pharmacological and non-pharmacological strategies. Because pediatric pain management is not always straightforward, we always work closely with our specialists when initial approaches are not effective.

What Are the Methods for Treating Pain in Pediatric Hospice Patients?

There is no one single approach–each method is tailored to your child’s needs for pediatric pain management. However, these techniques may include:

• Exercise (as tolerated)
• Relaxation
• Emotional counseling specially tailored for children

What Medicines Are Used to Treat Pain in Pediatric Hospice Patients?

Our physicians have received extensive, specialist training in pediatric pain management. The type of medicine used is tailored to each child, so we can’t give one answer. However, in general, some of the following medicines may be used:

• Paracetamol
• Ibuprofen
• Morphine
• Bisacodyl
• Metronidazole

What Are Some Signs My Child Is In Pain?

The way a child communicates pain varies depending on their age and developmental stage. At 3HC, we are keenly aware of these signs and we tailor our care plan accordingly.

Some signs may include:

• Irritability
• Crying more than usual
• Restlessness
• Changes in behavior, for example, your child may be quieter than usual
• Difficult to console or comfort
• Loss of interest in playing
• Sleeping problems

What Should I Do When My Child Is In Pain?

First, let us know. As mentioned earlier, communication is vital when controlling pain in our young hospice patients, and we want to eliminate their discomfort as soon as possible. Also speak with social workers, child psychologists, or other members of our 3HC team for assistance. Be sure to tell us about any previous pain control methods that were effective. In the meantime, it might help to distract your child so they can shift their focus from the pain.

At 3HC Hospice, We Provide Comprehensive and Compassionate Care to Help Those Most Precious to You

You are on a journey of tears and heartache, but you don’t have to go through it alone. Our healthcare team is ready to help you. In addition to doctors and nurses, our staff also includes social workers and chaplains.

Let our family at 3HC take care of your family. You can call our 24-hour referral line at: 1-800-692-4442 or start here to get care or request information.