Pain Management

TL;DR

Techniques to alleviate pain in patients.

What is Pain Management?

Pain management is a crucial aspect of first aid, involving the assessment and alleviation of pain in injured individuals.

Pain in children is often acute, resulting from injuries like sprains, fractures, cuts, burns, and muscle strains. Recognising pain in children can be challenging as they may not articulate their discomfort effectively. Indicators include changes in body posture, facial expressions like wincing or frowning, protecting or favouring the injured area, and behavioural changes such as crying, moaning, or being unusually quiet or overly active. Chronic pain, although less common in children than adults, can manifest as persistent crying, reluctance to play, and changes in eating and sleeping habits. Immediate care for pain includes identifying the pain level, managing visible injuries, and comforting the child through soothing touch, providing control over their positioning, and employing breathing techniques. Heat or cold applications can also aid in pain relief. In first aid settings, administering pain relief medications like paracetamol must be approached with caution. Schools and care providers are typically advised against storing or dispensing medications such as aspirin or paracetamol as standard practice, due to the risk of masking symptoms of severe illness or injury.

Ongoing pain in adults, or pain without an obvious cause, should be investigated by a medical professional.

Medical professionals can advise as to the correct pain management techniques for the different causes of pain. They may prescribe medications, therapies, rest, and immobilisation techniques.

Every person responds to pain differently, and so pain management techniques should be personalised based on the situation.

Methods of Pain Management

• Medication: Use of over-the-counter pain relievers like paracetamol or ibuprofen.
• Cold and Heat Therapy: Applying ice packs to reduce inflammation or heat packs to relax muscles.
• Rest and Immobilisation: Limiting movement to prevent further injury and allow healing.
• Distraction Techniques: Using activities or mental exercises to divert attention from pain.

Takeaway to remember

Pain management involves techniques and medications to alleviate discomfort and improve the quality of life for individuals experiencing pain due to injury or illness.

Reference

• First Aid eBook