Nonpharmacologic Techniques to Assist in Pediatric Pain Management

Managing children's pain is an essential component in the provision of comprehensive medical treatment, and children benefit from the incorporation of various pain management tools. Many nonpharmacologic techniques have been studied to examine their efficacy when used as a means of pain control, and an array of helpful approaches is available for children of all ages. This article explores evidence-based nonpharmacologic methods for addressing children's pain across different developmental levels. Although child life specialists regularly use these techniques to assist pediatric patients with pain associated with medical procedures, other practitioners in pediatric care can implement these into their practice to provide a well-rounded approach to treating pain.