Community Parents' Use of Non-Pharmacological Techniques for Childhood Pain Management

Pain is a common experience; however, there is limited research regarding techniques used by parents to alleviate their children's pain. This study, using an online survey, examines non-pharmacological techniques used by community parents to treat children's pain. Most parents reported the use of at least one technique; most common was comforting the child. Mothers reported using more techniques than fathers. Parents with more concerns about side effects of analgesics reported using a higher number of techniques. These results suggest that health care providers should be aware of techniques used by parents, and indicate a need to evaluate effectiveness of these techniques.