Pain in children

The purpose of this study was to describe parent’s experiences with pain relieving methods and their suggestions to other parents regarding the implementation of pain relief measures at home following tonsillectomy. Parents (N 79) were interviewed at home on the 4th day after the child’s surgery. Fifteen minute, audio-taped interviews, using both direct and open-ended questions, obtained information on parent’s expectations of pain, perceived effectiveness of the pain medications, use of non-pharmacologic approaches, and suggestions to other parents about pain relief measures at home following tonsillectomy. Audiotaped interviews were transcribed and independently coded by two members of the research team. Discrepancies in coding were resolved by consensus between a third member of the research team and the two original coders. Specific content within categories were quantified and reported as the number of parent responses. Nearly 50% of parents reported that their children had more pain after surgery than they expected. Most parents (93%) reported that they felt adequately prepared to manage their child’s pain. Parent satisfaction with pain relief was high and they all reported that the pain medication helped. Approximately 25% reported concerns about giving pain medicine. The most commonly used nonpharmacologic approach was taking cold things by mouth (63%). Comforting the child (49%), giving fluids (35%), and providing distraction (27%) were reported as useful. Parent’s suggestions to other parents included being prepared/knowing what to expect (21%), providing comfort (21%), and giving the pain medicine as ordered (15%). Parents underestimate the amount of pain their children will experience at home following tonsillectomy. Parental concerns regarding analgesic administration need to be addressed. The pain relieving methods that are perceived by parents to be helpful following tonsillectomy may provide clinicians with additional strategies to recommend in the relief of post-tonsillectomy pain in pediatric patients. Supported by a grant from the NINR (NR04826).