Managing pain in children at the end of life: What the GP should know

Abstract

Managing disease- and procedure-related pain in children is paramount. Chronically ill children, especially those requiring repeated procedures or admissions, may experience a significant burden of pain. If poorly managed, it has a negative impact on quality of life and parent-child relationships. 

According to the World Health Organization (WHO), the principles of palliative care are applicable to all children with chronic illnesses from the time of diagnosis.A key component of palliative care is good pain management.