Teenagers can be very active in managing their pain, while infants will have little direct participation. Increasing a child's sense of control decreases pain and increases co-operation. But there are limits to this control. Teenagers, on the other hand, can decide whether the side effects of a pain medicine are worth its pain-relieving effects. When a child says something is painful, he or she should be believed unless there is a very good reason not to.
Children also know what they prefer.
For instance, some like to watch as a needle is inserted, while others may want to look away. First, they are Experts in the treatment of your child's disease and the control of symptoms such as pain. Second, they should be Teachers, educating you and your child about disease, pain, and treatment choices. Third, they should be Caregivers, providing support and assistance to parents and children. For the newcomer to the hospital, there can be a confusing number of people in white coats.