Chronic pain in children is an undertreated problem

AORN Journal,  Feb, 2006  

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Chronic pain in children is an underrecognized and undertreated health problem worldwide, according to an Oct 17, 2005, news release from the American Pain Society (APS). In the United States, chronic pain affects approximately 15% of children, and few children or parents are taught anxiety-reducing skills that prevent or reduce pain during and after invasive procedures.

Untreated pain experienced early in life can have long-lasting effects on social, emotional and physical development in children. It also can foster permanent nervous system defects that will increase the risk for severe chronic pain as adults. Furthermore, children may avoid seeking future medical care if they have had previous painful experiences in health care facilities.

The APS and the International Association for the Study of Pain suggest the following activities for governments, health agencies, and providers to help increase awareness of chronic pain in children.

* Extend educational opportunities for health care providers in underresourced areas.

* In areas where pain relief is Limited by medication availability, advocate for improved funding and reduction of regulatory barriers.

* Encourage public education on pediatric pain and challenge incorrect public information on pain treatment.

* Provide awards to Local health care providers who make significant contributions to relief of children's pain.

The 2005 Global Day Against Pain (news release, Glenview, Ill: American Pain Society, Oct 17, 2005) http://www.ampainsoc.org/whatsnew/1005_pedpain/ (accessed 7 Dec 2005).

COPYRIGHT 2006 Association of Operating Room Nurses, Inc.
COPYRIGHT 2008 Gale, Cengage Learning