Older children may be asked to rate their pain on a scale of numbers or words. Texas Children's pediatric pain consultation service, comprised of nurses and anesthesiologists, works primarily with patients having chronic or post-operative pain. Nurses assess the child's pain and work with the child and family and the pediatric pain consultation service to get the best dose of medicine for the child's level of pain. There are many things that nurses do today to make a child's stay more comfortable. Planning is one key to preventing pain of procedures.
Nurses plan ahead so the child encounters a needle as few times as possible.
When they can allow an hour beforehand, nurses apply EMLA, a cream that numbs the skin, to the area being stuck so the child feels pressure but no pain. Often IVs for surgery may be inserted after the child is asleep. Preparation is also important. Being able to make choices, even little ones like which finger to stick, gives children a sense of control. This seems to reduce the intensity of the pain and the trauma of the procedure.